It's no secret that smoking is a dangerous and addictive habit. The National Cancer Institute notes that smoking is the cause of many health problems, including at least 10 types of cancer. It causes numerous heart problems, can affect your family and even put your unborn baby at risk. If you've made the decision to quit and are on the long road to being free of cigarettes, the recovery from smoking can seem a difficult one. You can make your recovery more comfortable and more successful with support and new habits.
Step 1
Join a support group with other recovering smokers, suggests HelpGuide.org. Talking with recovering smokers that have the same daily struggles that you have can remove the feelings of loneliness you may experience while quitting. Make connections with other quitters and get their phone numbers so you can call them in a moment of weakness. You may even meet some new friends who are supportive of your recovery efforts.
Step 2
Avoid habits that you associate with smoking. If you always had a cigarette with your morning coffee, switch to tea or orange juice in the morning, suggests FamilyDoctor.org. Engaging in old habits that you associate with smoking can trigger cravings and derail the recovery process.
Step 3
Write down your goals in small increments, so they are easily attainable. Giving yourself an unrealistic date and quitting schedule sets you up for failure. Using realistic dates and goals can spur you forward on the fuel of success. Give yourself a week to quit with one cigarette a day, or make a date to announce you're quitting. As you rack up smaller successes, you'll be ready for the larger success of recovery.
Step 4
Watch for signs of withdrawal that could have you craving another cigarette. Because cigarettes contain nicotine, an addictive substance, it can be difficult to wean your body off of the drug. Symptoms include irritability, depression, weight gain, dizziness, hunger, dry mouth and a lack of concentration, according to the University of Northern Iowa. When you're aware that the emotions and problems you're having are related to your recovery, you may be more likely to acknowledge and combat them without the use of cigarettes.
Step 5
Schedule an appointment with your doctor if your efforts to recover from smoking aren't successful or if you feel your quality of health is declining. She may be able to suggest prescription drugs to help you quit, or work with you to create a recovery plan that works for you as an individual.
