This article examines relapse by integrating knowledge from the addictive disorders of alcoholism, smoking, and obesity. Commonalities across these areas suggest at least three basic stages of behavior change: motivation and commitment, initial change, and maintenance.

The Harm Reduction approach is based on compassionate pragmatism instead of moralistic idealism. It recognizes that a minority of people have always abused alcohol and always will. It doesn't condone this behavior, but seeks to reduce its incidence and the harm it causes.

This expanded new edition provides the reader with practical information and skills to help them understand and change a drug or alcohol problem. Designed to be used in conjunction with therapy or counseling, it focuses on special issues involved in stopping substance use and in changing behaviors or aspects of one's lifestyle that keep the substance use problem active.

"People can overcome addictive behaviors, but doing so often requires time and multiple attempts. Many studies have taught us the importance of approaching treatment from a realistic perspective. In this second edition, the relapse model proffered by Marlatt for alcohol problems 20 years ago has now been extended to a dozen different addictive behaviors. Each chapter provides an overview of the management and prevention of relapse for specific problem areas. This book is absolutely essential for anyone working in the addictions field."--Linda Carter Sobell, PhD, Center for Psychological Studies, Nova Southeastern University