Day 9 quitting cold turkey

[MadMary08]

and so pleased to have found this forum as been lurking through many and this is by far the best one I have come across. It is so well organised and everyone is supportive of each other. I have spent most of my weekend reading up the pinned posts and other members stories, it is so good to know what I am feeling is normal, thank god!!

I decided to post today and introduce myself as I am so sad - I know this a common complaint and is like I am in grieving but has anyone any tips to help with it, not doing too bad otherwise, just taking it hour by hour.

[RoisinO1 Administrator 3 Years Smoke Free]

Welcome MadMary08 and congratulations on 9 days quit! You appear to be in a great mindset which is vital in our quits.

As you rightly said, the grief we feel is normal, I would suggest taking time out and being kind to yourself, pampering, nice relaxing baths with scented candles, do your nails, it definitely helped me (quit cold turkey almost 2 years ago).

Bit of exercise too, fruit and veg - I promise it will start to improve, post any time, keep up the great work

[mushen Valued Contributor]

Hello and welcome MadMary08

Well done for getting to day 9!

Quitting is a bit of a rollercoaster as far as emotions are concerned. I remember feeling particularly fed up because felt I was being deprived of something. I used smoking as a reward system so this made it doubly hard. I actually used to envy husband puffing away in the garden.

I think, as RoisinO1 says, the key here is to be really kind to yourself. Treat yourself, in other words. It does pass. I found that quitting can also be quite a lonely process, so if you need support, post on here as and when you need to.

Keep going. You won't feel like this forever. 😊

[Tryingtquit]

Hi MadMary08,

I find loads of ice-cold water can help with the cravings. At work I keep a bottle next to me all the time (and no, I don't mean gin). I too, feel a lot like I'm grieving a previous life. However, it is better to be grieving a previous life than regretting the shortening of the current one (if you catch my drift?)

I don't think I'll ever be completely clear of cravings but I hope to kick nicotine's butt this time and coming onto this forum is a great way to not only get inspired by the many success stories /and/ get support from experienced non-smokers; it's also a good way to distract yourself! There have been a few inspirational stories that have helped me on my way with a tough day/hour/minute without cigs.

Though I've been a lazy-bum for the last few weeks I did find that going for a swim/walk also helped. If you've got some good tunes / audiobooks they can also help keep your mind off the ciggies.

If you haven't already, I'd highly recommend finding a quit smoking app for your phone. Keeping track of the money you are saving is a great way to 'justify' treating yourself as Roisin suggests.

Right; no-smoke-break over, I'd best get back to work.

Stay strong!

All the best,

George