Let's give it another try

[ShubhamPrajapati]

I first came across this community some two years ago. And I must say people here were very supportive. It's been two years since then and again I feel the need of the people who have gone through what I'm going through at the moment. Back then I wasn't a heavy or a regular smoker. However, things are quite different now. I smoke regularly & I can literally feel my lungs screaming and telling me not to smoke. I go to bed everyday with a promise to myself that this was my last cigarette and I'd wake up free from this trap. But, I fail miserably, each & every time. I don't know what else to do. I've tried everything I can. I've read Allen Carr's book and I was able to stop smoking for a period of two months. I tried avoiding situations where I find myself in a need to smoke. I looked for triggers and was finally able to control the urge and soon I found myself free from smoking. Everything was going pretty good but again after a period of six months I relapsed. That was some 20 days ago. I feel like I'd never be able to quit. I'm very desperate and ready to take any measure I can to quit this addiction. Initially, it was just some puffs to calm the urge but it feels like a need now. This addiction is ruining my life, my mental peace. I just wanna get rid of smoking. I feel hopeless and depressed. This place is my last hope. I don't know what else to say.

[mushen Valued Contributor]

Hello!

I don't think there is any magic formula to quitting. For most of us, it is more of a 'head down, plod on hour by hour' kind of thing.

For me there were 2 things that made a difference. The first was constant support found on here. I found this vital, something I failed to realise at first.

The second big thing was instead of just quitting, I did an educated quit. Have you looked at WhyQuit.com? They have some of the best information out there and really are worth looking at. I watched all the videos, read the articles and most importantly, learnt a great deal about addiction. I never thought of myself as an addict, but I was and this was massively helpful.

Other things to note are that you really do have it within you, to stop smoking. Yes, it may be difficult but nowhere near as difficult as ending up with a smoking related disease that could kill you.

You sound like you really do want to quit. So, do it! What is stopping you? The only thing standing in your way, is you.

This is not a hopeless situation. You did it before, so do it again. Just take it one hour at a time, no more than that. And ask for help when you need it.

Give it a go! You've got this 😁

[ShubhamPrajapati in reply to mushen]

Thanks Mushen! I'd definitely visit the website you mentioned. Thanks for the support.

[mushen Valued Contributor in reply to ShubhamPrajapati]

Don't give up trying to quit. It is possible. 😁

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Hi Shubham It’s very nice to know you are back and ready to quit .We are all different but in my case I tried everything the only thing really worked for me was Chantix pill you can buy it but normally you get it by your doctor. I think Chantix is a great solution ..

Not matter which way you quit the most important is the desired to quit .

[helpmequit 2 Years Smoke Free]

Hi ShubhamPrajapati, welcome back and good luck with your journey towards a healthier life. As Mushen says, there is no magic formula to quitting and it is different for everyone - both the reasons for smoking and the things that help us quit and stay on track are very personal.

For me, publically announcing that I have quit (via this friendly, encouraging and excellent forum) has been pivotal so far because in my mind I have made a commitment that I must honour. I have also been able to disclose my thoughts and feelings which has been really helpful and powerful.

Most of all, I have found that focussing on achievement and success rather than what I am denying myself really keeps me going. I have an app that records progress, tells me how well I'm doing and how much healthier/richer/less at risk of disease I am. Its just a little thing but every little thing helps.

I am very much on track but still get unexpected cravings and longings and it is not always easy. But it does get better, it just takes time, determination and coping tools and strategies that work for you.

You want this and you can do it. I hope to hear from you as you go forward with the best decision you have made in a very long time. Good luck

[RoisinO1 Administrator 3 Years Smoke Free]

Welcome back to us ShubhamPrajapati - how are you feeling / doing now? Have you begun your new journey - Mushen gave you excellent advice especially staying close to us for the first few months and to educate yourself.....

Looking forward to reading an update from you when you get a chance....