Smoking Cessation – Steps to Quitting – Staying Smoke-Free

In life, we will occasionally encounter upsetting or depressing circumstances. In the past, we would deal with such situations by smoking cigarettes. Now that we have quit smoking, we need to learn other ways of dealing with how we feel under such circumstances.

Learn to deal with situations in a calm manner. Be able to exert self-control, so that when we feel depressed, we do NOT use smoking as a coping mechanism.

In the previous discussion, you have learned of various emotions and situations that trigger your urge to have a cigarette. Review those emotions and situations, such as:

  • when you are angry, stressed out, worried, depressed, hopeless, or lonely
  • when you have an argument with others
  • when you hang out with friends who smoke
  • at festivals, banquets, and parties, especially when there are cigarettes and alcohol around
  • when being happy, taking a break, or after meals, etc.

When you are tempted to smoke again, please remember and use those techniques that you have chosen to deal with the situation.

Staying tobacco-free

A relapse usually happens within the first three to six months of the quitting process. Please remember that a lot of people have tried several times before they eventually quit smoking successfully.

Maintain a healthy and happy lifestyle. Have a balanced and nutritious diet. Get enough sleep, exercise regularly, and engage in good hobbies.

Wishing you every success in quitting smoking!!!