I'm 24 and have been smoking for around 8 years. I recently decided to stop because I had a cold. I don't usually continue to smoke when I'm ill anyway, so I thought it would be a great time to give up the habit.
whilst ill I didn't use any aids because I really wasn't up to smoking. As I started getting better, my cravings began to surface and I started using patches. I've only ever smoked ten a day, so bought stage 2 (14mg), but I found these too strong and decided to reduce the dose further (I was also managing without aids at the weekend, though I've been told you should wear the patches even if you don't feel the need to).
However, I couldn't find stage 3 and, in a rush, bought 2mg gum instead. So far, over the last 5 days, I've chewed one piece. Maybe knowing that I have NRT help just in case is enough?
So, I have finally reached Week 3!
I've found the last 21 days very mixed, as I don't crave often but find that I really miss the physical part of holding a cigarette and smoking. Also, I find that my thoughts are still quite negative when I crave. I tend to feel more like I'm punishing myself, rather than saving myself!
I was given an unused e-cigarette at the weekend (I thought this would be better in moments of desperation than giving in to an actual cigarette), but I haven't held a cigarette in so long that I feel it might hinder me. If I've lasted this long, why pick up the habit of smoking anything again?
Anyway, I just wanted to introduce myself and am hoping for some advice from others who have reached the Week 3 point. I've read a few different posts on here whilst waiting for my account activation, and have found them really helpful!
Thanks.
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You've done brilliantly to get to 3 weeks and I think for you having the gum *just there* will do the trick!! I've got an e-cig and just having that in my bag is like a comfort blanket but it stops me wanting to smoke so it's good!! I felt the same as you about the e-cig and TBH you're right *but* if you get to the state it's that or a fag use the e-cig but only if you're desperate!!
I know exactly what you mean missing the physical part of smoking, that is tough and I made post-it notes into fags and "smoked" them instead - honestly it sounds daft but it fooled my brain straight away!!
Gemma, I also feel that having the help available can definately be enough without needing to make use of it.
I think the thing that has surprised me most is the fact that I get so few real cravings in a day. The feeling of a "craving" before was just my brain telling me I needed to light up, when really I'm only having two or three of these. The amount of unrequired cigarettes I used to smoke is ridiculous!
I do agree with Max when it comes to the e-cigs. Whilst I think it will be a good idea to keep hold of it for motivation in the early stages (as it's still better than giving in to real cigarettes), it would be stupid for me to get back into a habit that I've managed without. Also, when searching for information I found that there is apparently not much confirmed healthwise about the e-cig? I wouldn't like to have to wean myself off another addiction because of health risks!
I think, for now, it's probably best to deal with each day rather than thinking too far ahead.
The support on here is great, so I have my fingers crossed that this is all the motivation I need!
Gemma, I also feel that having the help available can definately be enough without needing to make use of it.
I think the thing that has surprised me most is the fact that I get so few real cravings in a day. The feeling of a "craving" before was just my brain telling me I needed to light up, when really I'm only having two or three of these. The amount of unrequired cigarettes I used to smoke is ridiculous!
I think that can do more than taking the gum or puffing on the e-cig really
Know exactly what you mean about the unnecessary fags. Since I stopped (and did my signature) I've looked back at the times I'd have "more than usual" and really should up the number I smoked :eek: and didn't "need" or even enjoy most of them!!
I do agree with Max when it comes to the e-cigs. Whilst I think it will be a good idea to keep hold of it for motivation in the early stages (as it's still better than giving in to real cigarettes), it would be stupid for me to get back into a habit that I've managed without. Also, when searching for information I found that there is apparently not much confirmed healthwise about the e-cig? I wouldn't like to have to wean myself off another addiction because of health risks!
I agree too, and wouldn't use one if I hadn't risked losing my quit by not doing!!
So far as I know they're safe - the stuff they use to make the vapour is widely used in medicines etc (and stage smoke) and it's regarded as safe. It's going to be safer than fag smoke though!!
Well I have to say Saral Lou, you have done the hard bit all by yourself so I reckon you don't need that Electronic ciggy! I think you keep on doing what you ahve been doing and you will find soon enough that things start to get easier for you. Really they do!
Welcome to the forum by the way and good decisions both to quit and to join here. This forum is an excellent stop smoking aid!
At least we know the help is available if we really struggle And, like you've said, the odd smoke of an e-cigarette is definately not as worrying as giving into the real thing!
I have been enjoying not asking myself "Do I have enough cigarettes and a lighter?" whenever I leave the house! That's definately one of my favourite perks so far.
At least we know the help is available if we really struggle And, like you've said, the odd smoke of an e-cigarette is definately not as worrying as giving into the real thing!
I have been enjoying not asking myself "Do I have enough cigarettes and a lighter?" whenever I leave the house! That's definately one of my favourite perks so far.
At least we know the help is available if we really struggle And, like you've said, the odd smoke of an e-cigarette is definately not as worrying as giving into the real thing!
I have been enjoying not asking myself "Do I have enough cigarettes and a lighter?" whenever I leave the house! That's definately one of my favourite perks so far.
It doesn't seem to be as strong either, and I used to smoke lights. Good 'cos I don't want it to be!!
That's a huge perk - it's really liberating not having to carry that around and not worrying if you can dive off somewhere for one is great too
Well I have to say Saral Lou, you have done the hard bit all by yourself so I reckon you don't need that Electronic ciggy! I think you keep on doing what you ahve been doing and you will find soon enough that things start to get easier for you. Really they do!
Welcome to the forum by the way and good decisions both to quit and to join here. This forum is an excellent stop smoking aid!
Thanks very much Haze
I still feel as though there's some battling to do, but I'm well on my way to winning!
The best piece of advice I've been given so far is to blog everything on a forum. it works wonders having the help and support of others who know exactly how you're feeling!
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but it stops me wanting to smoke so it's good!! I felt the same as you about the e-cig and TBH you're right *but* if you get to the state it's that or a fag use the e-cig but only if you're desperate!! 
I've finally made it!
Last and final quit!!
Finally stopped on day 1
