MHPE Volunteer Resource INDUCTION Readiness to change —helping you, helping Veterans Tab 6

MHPE Volunteer Resource – Tab 6 Induction: Readiness to change What is ‘readiness to change’? Why is it that most people know what they should be doing, but not actually doing it? Change is harder than the alternative; we are more comfortable with what we are used to Change involves a gradual evolution in thinking and action

MHPE Volunteer Resource – Tab 6 Induction: Readiness to change ‘Stages of Change’ model Developed by Prochaska & DiClemete (1983) Suggests that behaviour change does not happen in one step Tend to progress through stages on way to successful and lasting change

MHPE Volunteer Resource – Tab 6 Induction: Readiness to change

MHPE Volunteer Resource – Tab 6 Induction: Readiness to change 1. Precontemplation Unaware or under-aware of a problem behaviour that needs to be changed No intention for behaviour change in the foreseeable future “No problems, I’m fine as I am”.

MHPE Volunteer Resource – Tab 6 Induction: Readiness to change 2. Contemplation Aware a problem exists and thinking about overcoming it – but not yet ready or sure of wanting to make a change. Starting to weigh the pros and cons of modifying their behaviour. “I can’t do what I used to; I need to get fitter”.

MHPE Volunteer Resource – Tab 6 Induction: Readiness to change 3. Preparation Made a commitment to change and intending to take action. Getting ready to change. May experiment with small changes. “That new gym has opened up nearby; I’ll buy myself a tracksuit”.

MHPE Volunteer Resource – Tab 6 Induction: Readiness to change 4. Action Taking direct action towards changing behaviour and achieving a goal Believe they have the ability to change their behaviour “Three times a week I’m in the gym—I’m feeling good”

MHPE Volunteer Resource – Tab 6 Induction: Readiness to change 5. Maintenance Maintaining the behaviour changes Successfully avoiding temptations to return to the negative habit “I’m attending regularly, and rarely miss a session”

MHPE Volunteer Resource – Tab 6 Induction: Readiness to change 6. Relapse ‘Slipping back’ into old habits (at any stage) Common feature of sustained change (most relapse before maintenance achieved) Can be discouraging for the person Opportunity to learn and become stronger Look at reaffirmation of goals

MHPE Volunteer Resource – Tab 6 Induction: Readiness to change Why is this important? Assist with ‘assessing’ the stage an individual is in Helps you to present information appropriate for each stage Helps you to reassure the person their challenges are a normal part of change

MHPE Volunteer Resource – Tab 6 Induction: Readiness to change What is important at each stage? Precontemplation—information Contemplation—information on options on how to change behaviours Preparation—setting goals and timelines

MHPE Volunteer Resource – Tab 6 Induction: Readiness to change What is important at each stage? Action—implementing the plan Maintenance—continuing goal directed behaviour/choices Relapse—reaffirming goals and commitment to change © Commonwealth of Australia 2015