One well-known theory of how individuals with substance use problems move from substance use to recovery is the Stages of Change model. The model describes five basic stages that substance users move through on their way to recovery; precontemplation, contemplation, action, maintenance and relapse. It attempts to explain why some people respond quickly to problems while others resist. People experience change differently. Some move quickly through the stages, while others move more slowly and may remain “stuck” in one stage. Other patients may skip or repeat stages. One of the strengths of the model is its acknowledgment that change is rarely linear — that relapse occurs. Relapse, rather than seen as a totally negative experience, is looked upon as an opportunity to learn from previous attempts to change and as part of the movement towards long-lasting change.