Dealing with the Symptoms of Withdrawal

Stop Smoking Day 6

Today you will continue to eliminate cigarettes smoked per day and tomorrow you will smoke half of the cigarettes you used to smoke.

Maintain your smoking record, and continue to decrease your dependency on nicotine.

If you have any doubts at any time, just think about the following reasons to quit smoking:

  • I will feel healthier right away. I will have more energy and better focus. My senses of smell and taste will be better. I will have whiter teeth and fresher breath. I will cough less and breathe better.
  • I will be healthier the rest of my life. I will lower my risk for cancer, heart attacks, strokes, early death, cataracts, and skin wrinkling.
  • I will make my partner, friends, family, kids, grandchildren, and co-workers proud of me.
  • I will be proud of myself. I will feel more in control of my life. I will be a better role model for others.
  • I will no longer expose others to my second-hand smoke.
  • I will have a healthier baby. (If you're pregnant)
  • I will have more money to spend on more fun things.
  • I won't have to worry: "When will I get to smoke next?" or "What do I do when I'm in a smoke-free place?"

Also, try the following tips to manage your cravings at a lower level:

  • Learn to relax quickly by taking deep breaths.
    • Take 10 slow, deep breaths and hold the last one.
    • Then breathe out slowly.
    • Relax all of your muscles.
    • Picture a soothing, pleasant scene.
    • Just get away from it all for a moment.
    • Think only about that peaceful image and nothing else.
  • Keep other things around instead of cigarettes. Try carrots, pickles, sunflower seeds, apples, celery, raisins, or sugarfree gum.
  • Where you are and what is going on can make you crave a cigarette. A change of scene can really help. Go outside, or go to a different room. You can also try changing what you are doing.
  • Wash your hands or the dishes when you want a cigarette very badly. Or take a shower.
  • Light incense or a candle instead of a cigarette.
  • No matter what, don't think, "Just one won't hurt." It will hurt. It will undo your work so far.