Quitting smoking can feel overwhelming. The key to success is to keep trying and if you slip up don’t spend too much time thinking about it. Get back to quitting and learn from your mistakes. Think about what triggered you to have a cigarette and decide what you’ll do to avoid that trigger in the future.
Here are some tips to help you officially become a non-smoker:
Take advantage of quitting medications and therapies, as well as free support and counselling services.
There are a wealth of opportunities and resources out there if you think you're ready to quit smoking. Even if you're not quite ready yet, don't be afraid to talk to one of our quit coaches about starting a quit plan that works for you. If you see the icons that are either to your right (on desktop) or above (on mobile), you can get more info on product reimbursement for quitting medications as well as our counselling services.
Rally support from your friends and family.
Your close network of friends and family can be one of the best resources there are in finding a way to quit smoking. They offer you support, someone you can share your experience with, and perhaps most importantly, they can be a distraction that helps take your mind off of smoking.
Keep your hands busy
It seems simple, but keeping your hands busy can be a huge deterrent in keeping yourself from smoking. Many smokers once they quit can get fidgety hands, while others miss the sensation of holding something in their hands. Occupying yourself with stress balls, small toys, or anything to keep your hands occupied can help dissipate the craving of having a cigarette.
Shake up your routine and avoid temptation
Many smokers have a daily routine that instinctively involves smoking or taking a break to have a smoke. That routine can keep people smoking almost as much as nicotine withdrawal. To avoid this, try changing things up. If you normally have a cigarette with your morning coffee, try having that first coffee somewhere where smoking is prohibited. If you always have a smoke after your lunch break, try using that time to go for a walk instead. Breaking your smoking habit is not just about stopping the routine of smoking cigarettes.
Don't smoke: there's no such thing as 'just one'
Smoking, as you probably already know, is incredibly addictive. While you may know some friends that have an occasional cigarette here and there, they probably don't have the same level of addiction that you do. Even if you've stopped smoking for some time, just one cigarette can throw you right back in to a deep addiction. If you feel that urge to 'just have one', try taking some deep breaths, getting some exercise, or talking to a trusted friend or family member instead.
Consider connecting with a Quit Coach either by phone or chat. The Coaches are experts in supporting smokers on their quit journey.
