Fear of Quitting
As smokers, we spend years dreaming of the day we're finally able to stub out that last cigarette and start living our lives free of the ball and chain that nicotine addiction is. At the same time, we are so afraid to quit...to actually take that step that means we're done with smoking. Life without our cigarettes is scary to contemplate.
An About.com Smoking Cessation reader asks:
"I'm about to quit smoking. I have one cigarette left, and after I smoke it, that's it. Even though I am looking forward to quitting, the most prevalent emotion I feel is fear. Trying to put my fear into words, the thoughts that come to mind are: What the heck am I going to do without my cigarettes? What the heck am I going to do if I can't smoke?!"
Why Am I So Afraid to Quit Smoking?
Take action to avoid the paralysis that thoughts of quitting can bring on:
Education
The more we understand about what to expect from nicotine withdrawal, the better we'll be prepared to manage it.
Connect with Support
Your chance for long-term success with smoking cessation will be increased many times over if you add some support to your quit program. From enlisting the help of family and friends to connecting with others online who are going through what you are, building a solid support network is key to helping you quit smoking permanently.
It takes courage to put down that last cigarette and quit smoking, but you can do it. Arm yourself with education and support and dive in. The water's fine!
Photo © Stockxpert
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Take The Quit Smoking Monday Pledge
Healthy Monday encourages us to think of every Monday as a day that we can begin work anew on goals that we have for ourselves. If you're still smoking, put your cigarettes down and get started on your quit program today.
We all have the ability to quit smoking successfully, and we all deserve a life that is free of addiction. Honor your life by choosing Monday as the day to start and reinforce your quit program.
You can quit smoking ... and we're here to help you, one simple Monday at a time.
Image © healthymonday.org
