ABSTRACT
Many professionals believe that the permanent resolution of a problem is impossible. There is always the chance that under pressure of personal disasters or stress, there is a danger of maladaptive behaviour returning. This is probably true for behaviours such as alcohol abuse or weight gain, but with others – such as smoking – it becomes less likely as the person ages. People can, however, be aware of the danger signs and live in a way that avoids the recurrence of self-defeating behaviours. This chapter entails focusing on maintaining personal responsibility, accepting both negative and positive feelings and being able to recognise and deal with ambivalent feelings. An individual's belief in their goals and in their ability to achieve them provides the foundation for motivation and for adopting a positive approach to the future. When events in life are not going to plan, it can be hard to plumb inner resources and maintain a positive attitude.
