Dealing With Stress
If you've had a relapse with a cigarette or two here are some quit smoking tips to help.
We all feel stress. It's unavoidable. The cause can be negative, like trouble at
work, or a truck barreling towards us. It can also be positive. Getting married,
or starting a new job are stressful but enjoyable situations. The trick is learning
to let go of stress before it builds.
Research shows smokers suffer from more stress than non-smokers. That's because
"lighting up" under stress instead of tackling a stressful situation head on can
leave the real problems unresolved. The good news is there are some basic rules
you can follow to deal with anxiety and create your own stress-busting techniques.
Think Positive
“Thinking positive” means not allowing negative thoughts and doubts to take root.
Think back to a time you decided you wanted something you didn't have. If you had
confidence in yourself, you usually achieved your goal. Even if you had doubts,
you got rid of them by concentrating on what you wanted.
The same is true for quitting.
When you feel a negative thought creeping in, be quick to counter it by "thinking
positive." Phrases filled with confidence and optimism can get you past those sneaky
urges to return to your old way of life. Yes, you can talk your way to victory!
Here are some examples to get you started. Repeat them over and over. Write them
down. Believe that they are true.
I'm a non-smoker.
I'm proud of myself for saying “No!”
I love setting a positive example for my children.
I don't need cigarettes to be happy.
What I am feeling is my body and mind healing from years of addiction.
Work Out
Exercise the tried-and-true way to good physical and mental health. Whether you’re
into sports, jogging, weights or leisurely walks, try making daily exercise a way
of life. You’ll look better, feel better and beat stress.
Express yourself
Talk about your stop-smoking worries and concerns. It’s a terrific way to clear
your mind and reduce stress. Find a friend or a therapist who you can trust. Or
try keeping a journal. Moving negative thoughts out of your head and onto paper
can release a lot of the chaos you may be feeling.
Breathe deeply
When the cravings strike, go back to the basics. Inhale to a slow count of ten and
exhale at the same speed through your nose. Before you respond to a situation, deep
breathing can help you mentally prepare.
Eat sensibly
Eliminate the sugar highs and inevitable “crashes” from your diet. High-fat, high-sugar
foods throw your metabolism out of whack and may lead to weight gain — another
symptom of stress you don’t need right now.