An initial setback or lapse may translate into either a return to the previous problematic behavior, known as relapse,[4] or the individual turning again towards positive change, called prolapse.
[5] Relapse is thought to be multi-determined, especially by self-efficacy, outcome expectancies, craving, motivation, coping, emotional states, and interpersonal factors.
Such a nonlinear dynamical system is believed to be able to best predict the data witnessed, which commonly includes cases where small changes introduced into the equation seem to have large effects.
The uniqueness of the model is the sustainment of change by developing service users and carers as 'experts' – following RP as an educational process and graduating as Relapse Prevention Practitioners.
In the relapse prevention model, patients and clinicians work together to develop strategies that target these high-risk situations, using both cognitive and behavioral techniques.
[12] Another approach often used in patients who wish to taper down antidepressant medication is preventive cognitive therapy, an 8-week psychological intervention program delivered in individual or group sessions that focuses on changing dysfunctional attitudes, enhancing memories of positive experiences and helping patients to develop personal relapse prevention strategies.