A Little About My Quit
I am 57 years old and have been smoking off and on since I was 14. I quit smoking 15 days ago. I have been using inhalers and asthma medicine for years and after a visit to my doctor who admonished me for still smoking with my breathing problems, I told her that I would quit. I left the office and have not smoked since.
It has been a very rough two weeks. The first three days were misery, the cravings and withdrawal symptoms were very hard to deal with. What helped me was reading everything I could about the benefits of quitting and the damage done by smoking. Water, sugar free hard candy and cough drops really help too.
What Cessation Has Taught Me
Getting off the cigarettes has not been easy, but the sense of pride and accomplishment is overwhelming. I feel like a different person; stronger and happier because I have been able to put those cigarettes down.
Quitting can be done. I think you really have to have your mind made up. I knew if I gave in how disappointed I would be in myself, so I have not given in.
To anyone considering quitting, just do it! Cold turkey is a good way to quit in my opinion. Put the cigarettes down, get support, read all you can, talk to everyone, pamper yourself, and just do not take one puff. Not one.
I never thought I could quit smoking, and now I look forward to getting up in the morning and not reaching for a cigarette. I feel free -- free from the slavery of cigarettes. I can breathe freely, and have not used an inhaler in over a week. I look forward to each day.
Once you get through the initial days, life changes so much for the better. My skin glows. Do not worry about a few extra pounds, they will go away in time. My self-esteem is through the roof now.
You can do it too!
Advice
- Quit cold turkey and read all you can about the withdrawal symptoms. It really helps to read what others have gone through and know what to expect. That made it easier for me not to give in to the cravings.
- Drink lots of water, that really helps.
- When a craving or a real desire to reach for cigarette hits, just remember IT WILL PASS. I would just get up and walk around, think of something else. As each day passes it does get easier.
- I had depression and sadness over the loss of cigarettes. If that happens to you, remember that it will pass. Just do not give in, nicotine is very tricky. It all passes and you will feel better!
Terry Martin, Smoking Cessation Guide, says:
Congratulations on your decision to quit smoking, Linda. You are so right that while the early days of smoking cessation may be uncomfortable, nicotine withdrawal is a temporary condition. Better days are ahead...much better!The link below contains information to help you solidify your resolve as you move forward on your smoke-free path.
Mountains are moved one simple step at a time. Continue to work your quit in that spirit and you'll be looking back from the one year mark faster than you think!
