WARMING UP:
Common questions about quitting smoking
Smoking is a part of my life. What will I do without it?
The key is to learn new ways of dealing with the situations that make you want to smoke, such as stress or boredom. Find something fulfilling to do, like a hobby or other activity. It will help you adjust to your new lifestyle.
The last time I tried, I failed. How do I get past thinking that I just can't quit?
Most people try several times before they quit for good. Think of your previous attempts as "practice" for the real thing. Think of the things that helped, and the things that didn't. Your experience actually gives you an edge. It makes you more likely to quit for good this time.
Will cutting down help me to quit?
It could, as long as you plan to quit completely once you get down to a certain point. Cutting down can be a good way to build your confidence while gradually reducing your nicotine intake. If you want to quit completely, you need to set a Quit Day and stick to it. Otherwise it can be very difficult to give up those last few cigarettes.
The last time I quit I was not nice to be around. How do I keep from putting my family through that again?
It's true, quitting smoking can make you irritable. Many people get moody when they're making a big change like this. But with a good plan and an active routine, you'll be better prepared to handle bad moods. Ask your family to be patient. By the end of the first week or two, you should be feeling less and less irritable.
Should I use the patches or some other quitting aid?
Many people find such aids to be helpful. The most common ones are nicotine patches, nicotine gum, and certain medications. They can be especially helpful for people who smoke more than 15 cigarettes a day. On the other hand, many smokers prefer to quit cold turkey. Whether you use a quitting aid or go cold turkey is a personal decision. You may wish to discuss it with your doctor. For more about quitting aids, click HERE.
SEE THE HELPLINE FACT SHEETS:
Using the Nicotine Gum
Using the Nicotine Patch
Using the Nicotine Inhaler
Using Zyban
What should I expect when I quit?
Everyone's experience with quitting is a little different. But here are some things you may notice:
. Difficulty being around smokers
. Good days and bad days
. Withdrawal symptoms, such as irritability
. Breathing easier
. Situations that challenge your motivation to keep going
. Cravings that are strong at first, but weaker with time
. A growing sense of accomplishment
How do I get started?
Congratulations for asking this question! You may want to thumb through this whole booklet to get an overview of the process. Here's a quick look at some of the most important pages to be sure to read:
. Find your reason to quit
. Consider using a quitting aid
. Choose a Quit Day, see step 2
. Identify your triggers to smoke and plan how you'll deal with them
