dealing with stress

[Peep92]

I was just curious to know what new methods any of you have developed to relieve stress? Like me, I'm sure all of you smoked to relieve stress. I actually feel less stressed since quitting, but I do get stressed very easily and really don't want to get so stressed to the point that I feel like I need to smoke. Any advice would be great! One thing I've started to do is go to the gym; jogging is great Another thing I wanted to ask people about is if anyone is feeling/has felt extra emotional in the first couple weeks of quitting? This probably sounds really strange, but there have been a few times that I suddenly get very anxious, and even start crying. I think it is because smoking is also a way to deal with things in our lives that worry us, make us sad etc. For me, smoking was a way of distracting myself, and blocking negative feelings and thoughts. So now that I no longer have cigarettes as a coping mechanism/am emotionally dependent on them, it makes me have to face things that are bothering me, which is actually quite a scary thing sometimes! Hope everyone is coping and feeling positive!

[jillygirl Administrator LONG TERM WINNER]

Hi Peep92, I used Emjays deep breathing exercises when I felt stressed. My first 2 weeks I too felt like crying and on edge , but it didnt last for long. Keep positive youll get there.

[monky Administrator 35 Months Winner]

Hi ya Peep, its great to meet you, and a big welcome to this lovely site

Erm, ave been noseying about and found this old post by Jillygirl, just have a read if you have a couple of days spare eh Speak soon, Pete

Stopping smoking and feeling depressed.

Posted by jillygirl

7 hours ago

5 comments

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Depression is an issue of focus for many who quit smoking. At times, quitting smoking is an extremely difficult thing to do, and it is difficult enough when you're feeling happy. I would venture to guess that many people have relapsed during periods of depression; it is more difficult to stay focused and maintain resolve and motivation. For those people who suffer bouts of depression during the cessation process, the condition is usually mild and temporary.

People who have been diagnosed and or treated for depression prior to quitting smoking should monitor any changes in symptoms carefully as they begin and move forward in their smoke-free journey. Some may experience changes in their symptoms, which may necessitate a change in treatment. If you experience drastic mood changes when you quit smoking, or if they persist for an extended period of time, a visit with your physician is advisable.

If you find yourself suffering the more common temporary emotional upset, try to relax and let the feelings come as they will. Quitting is a big change in lifestyle, and you will react, to some degree, both emotionally and physically. And think about it; there really is no reason to deny your emotions; they are personal, and they belong to you.

Symptoms of depression may include:

sleeplessness

sadness

difficulty concentrating

anxiety or an "empty feeling

fatigue

changes in appetite (more or less)

loss of interest in hobbies, activities

emotional irritability

While quitting smoking, the body and the mind are in a state of transition, and it's not uncommon for new ex-smokers to struggle with their emotions.

Gratitude

It helps to build up a reservoir of gratitude. When you're feeling down and having a difficult time finding the positives, quitting smoking is always there; you can always feel good about that. Take time at the end of the day to acknowledge the importance of what you are working to accomplish. It will help you fill that reservoir. Find comfort in knowing that you are being kind to your body. Gratitude will help offset negative feelings and make it easier for you to manage depression due to quitting tobacco.

Change Your Mind

One of the greatest challenges new ex-smokers face is a very important change in perspective. It is that shift in thinking from seeing smoking as an exercise in deprivation to realizing that it is in fact one of the best gifts you've ever given to yourself. This is a crucial step in the process, and it is with this transformation that many see the symptoms of depression begin to lift.

While you are moving through this transitional period, crying, whining, and even screaming are all preferable to inhaling deadly chemicals. Early in the quitting process, some resort to lighting up because they perceive smoking to be something that offers comfort.

Smoking is not comforting; it is familiar.

Time away from smoking makes it less familiar; you'll begin to see nicotine for what it is...a highly addictive drug which robs people of time with those they love and seeks to kill, one puff at a time...if you let it. Give yourself time to develop new and healthier coping strategies. Don't buy the lie. There is never a good reason to light up.

It's likely that many of you who are feeling down, felt happy recently. You'll feel that way again. In the meantime, you can find comfort in turning to your friends, your family, or your faith. In time, these will become the more familiar sources of comfort to you, and smoking will become that thing that you thought used to make you feel better. Take comfort too, in knowing that millions of people have been through this process and not only have they lived to tell about it, but many include it among the most rewarding and life-affirming experiences of their lives.

So, if you've quit smoking in the last few weeks or months and are feeling blue, please be patient with yourself. You are going through some big changes, and your body and mind need some time to adjust. Do any little things you can think of to give yourself a little lift. Rent a comedy, try a new hairstyle, call a friend, go shopping; spend a little of the money you're saving since you quit, and buy yourself something special. Keep reminding yourself that it is a temporary state, and you'll find happier days ahead; with them will come a tremendous sense of pride and empowerment.

[Peep92 in reply to monky]

Thanks Pete, that was really inspiring to read!

[Hidden]

Yep you right. Smoking helps avoid dealing with things. Fear of being overwhelmed is stopped by having that fag.... so me too avoiding avoidance is probably one of my 2 biggest challenges of quitting ...The other being chest getting even more congested over shorter term . Hence keep putting off quit date. X

[Peep92]

Glad it's not just me being strange :P. It is such a horrible feeling when it comes on. I feel like the walls are closing in on me. It doesn't last long though, thank God. I think if you do your best to stay positive that helps. I'm confused - so are you saying that because your chest keeps getting worse, that is why you keep putting off quitting?