Which stage involves feelings of Dread regarding making plans for change?

The stage that involves feelings of dread regarding making plans for change is the Preparation stage. In this phase, individuals recognize the need for change and start to contemplate the steps they will take, which can often lead to anxiety or apprehension about the upcoming changes. People may feel overwhelmed by the thought of transitioning from their current behaviors to new, healthier ones.

During the Preparation stage, individuals may find themselves thinking deeply about their goals and the steps needed to achieve them. This can manifest as feelings of dread, as the reality of committing to change sets in and they grapple with uncertainties and potential obstacles. This emotional response is a normal part of the change process, as they're beginning to move from a passive desire for change towards an active plan, which can be daunting.

In contrast, the other stages—Action, Maintenance, and Relapse—have different emotional and behavioral characteristics. The Action stage typically involves active efforts to implement new behaviors, where feelings might include excitement or motivation rather than dread. Maintenance focuses on sustaining the changes made, where the emphasis is on consolidation and stability rather than planning. Relapse involves returning to old behaviors, usually accompanied by its own set of emotions related to regret or frustration, rather than dread about making plans. Understanding these stage-specific