Quitting smoking is quite possibly one of the most difficult things to do. It is not easy, it takes a lot of perseverance and needs a lot of willpower, and mental strength. At times, many feel that they simply cannot do it. Hang in there, it will get easier and you can kick the habit.
As everyone knows, tobacco is a physical addiction as well as a habit hence making the quitting process incredibly difficult. As nicotine leaves your system, you will experience withdrawal symptoms:
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Cigarette cravings
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Irritability, frustration, or anger
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Anxiety or nervousness
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Difficulty concentrating
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Restlessness
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Increased appetite
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Headaches
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Insomnia
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Tremors
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Increased coughing
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Fatigue
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Constipation or upset stomach
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Depression
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Decreased heart rate
Let’s be honest, the withdrawal symptoms aren’t entirely pleasant. That said, many of us smoke out of habit and because these habits are ingrained into our daily schedule, these little habits are the ones that seem even harder to break. Hang in there, you can do it!
So, pick your quit date and stick to it. Once you get to your quit date, throw out all smoking paraphernalia; lighters, ashtrays, and cigarettes, and start as you mean to go on: smoke-free.
Some people find it easier to quit by going ‘cold turkey’, others feel that they need the support of nicotine replacement products. Nicotine replacement products include gum, patches, tablets, and other such prescribed medication from their doctor. Others have successfully quit using Eliquid vapor cigarettes, in which cartridges are installed and vapor is inhaled as a replacement for cigarettes. They are proving more and more popular and many people have heralded them as a great way to kick the habit.
Once you have a plan in place, stick to it and bear in mind that there are smoking ‘triggers’. Triggers include drinking alcohol, which ultimately results in people falling off their smoke-free wagon. It may be best to avoid alcohol for two weeks, while you are working hard to quit smoking. Likewise, if you are around other smokers (or happen to live with other smokers) quitting can seem virtually impossible. Hopefully, your colleagues, housemates, spouse, or friends will be supportive of your decision to quit. The key thing here is to inform them of your plans to quit and tell them you would appreciate their support. Many smokers don’t actually want to smoke so you will find that they will be incredibly supportive.
Managing cravings can be difficult, so do try to distract yourself from wanting to smoke. As difficult as this may seem, you will ultimately feel better in the long run when you eventually ditch the cigarettes. Many ex-smokers say that they missed the feel of the cigarette in their hands, so find something to busy yourself with. Go retro and invest in a Rubik’s cube, keep a straw handy, do the dishes, and text a friend. Whatever you do, don’t smoke!
Quitting is hard, but hopefully, these handy tips will lead you to a smoke-free, healthy future. Good luck!
