The 5th stage of change focuses on preventing relapse and consolidating gains. Which stage is described?

• A. Precontemplation
• B. Contemplation
• C. Action
• D. Maintenance

Answer: (D)

In this stage, the focus is on sustaining the new behavior and preventing relapse over the long term. After making initial changes and consolidating early gains, the individual works to keep those changes stable, integrate them into daily life, and strengthen coping skills to handle triggers and stress. Relapse prevention is central: identifying high‑risk situations, using coping strategies (urge management, distraction, problem-solving), maintaining supports (therapy, peer groups, family), and planning for slips without abandoning the change.

This stage is distinct from earlier ones where the person isn’t ready to change (precontemplation), is weighing options but not yet committed (contemplation), or is actively implementing new behaviors (action). The description provided aligns with the maintenance phase, where the goal is long‑term stabilization of the new, healthier behavior.