There's a big difference between a lapse and a relapse. Did you have one or two puffs or have you been cheating every day? Here you can find out whether it's a lapse or a relapse, and learn what you should do about it.
Click and drag the arrow to get the advice you need to get back on track.
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A couple of puffs
Lapse
Okay, you had a weak moment. It's normal to want a puff now and then, but a lapse can lead to a relapse. A stop-smoking quit aid can also help relieve nicotine cravings. Remember that quitting is one of the most important things you can do for yourself.
One or two cigarettes
Lapse
It's true that most people who try to quit often have a lapse in the first eight days. But it's critical that you immediately get back to not smoking. A stop-smoking quit aid can also help relieve nicotine cravings. Also, enlist the help of friends and review your Cravings Pacifier for ideas on how to cope.
Cheating on and off
lapse on its way to relapse
You've lapsed too much. So, first things first: You need to get back to not smoking immediately. Look carefully at what was happening when you began to smoke and learn from it. A stop-smoking quit aid can help relieve nicotine cravings. Complete the trigger detector to help you avoid difficult situations.
Every day, at least one
Relapse
You may not be back to where you were before, but you have relapsed. Don't dwell on it. Just get back to not smoking immediately. If you feel an urge, a stop-smoking quit aid can help relieve nicotine cravings. Also remove yourself from the situation, call a friend, go for a walk or try a relaxation exercise. Refuse to give up on your efforts.
Back at it
Relapse
Yes, you've relapsed, but don't beat yourself up. Just move forward. Set a new quit date. A stop-smoking quit aid can help relieve nicotine cravings. Make a list of things that help you relieve stress. And if your support system failed, join a quit-smoking group or call a hot line. This time, make it stick.