Stopping smoking is hard and you will have setbacks throughout your journey. In fact, relapsing is part of the process for most people. But relapsing doesn’t mean you can’t stop. Every time you try, you get closer to stopping for good!
Relapses can happen because smoking is a strong addiction. The cravings and nicotine withdrawal symptoms can feel overwhelming, and you might find yourself smoking again because of stress. Sometimes, trying to stop by using willpower alone can be challenging but there are a range of support options out there to help.
If you have relapsed, don’t be too hard on yourself. It’s okay to have slip-ups and you’re not alone in having them.
Relapses give you a chance to learn. Think about the reason you smoked this time. Once you’ve identified the trigger(s), write them down and place them somewhere visible. Knowing what caused your relapse can help you manage and avoid them better next time.
Speak to your friends and family for support. It can be tough to stop smoking alone. Having a close support network who you can rely on when you are relapsing can make a huge difference. Their encouragement and belief in your journey to being smoke free can help you to stay motivated.
Remember – you are not a failure. Be proud you are picking yourself up and trying again. There are now more proven ways to stop smoking than ever before – you can do it!
