Coping Skills to Quit Smoking

There are many people around the world who would love to quit smoking but they lack the proper information needed to succeed. The addiction to nicotine can quite difficult to overcome. Proper treatment isn't enough. In order to be successful, you need to have a good support system as well as determination. It is very important to know and to cope with the withdrawal symptoms. Keep in mind that the withdrawals are only temporary and no matter how bad they make you feel, they will go away and leave you feeling better than you have in the longtime.

Withdrawal symptoms

When quitting tobacco, your body is open to a variety of withdrawal symptoms. The most common of which are as follows:

• Craving for tobacco
• Irritability
• Trouble sleeping
• Fatigue
• Increased appetite
• Trouble concentrating
• Stomach pains
• Constipation

Coping with the symptoms

Having the right coping skills to stop smoking can make all the world of difference. When you start to feel irritable, many times it helps to do something relaxing such as taking a hot shower or a nice bath. However irritability isn't the only withdraw symptom. The following is a list of some of the major ones and what you can do about it.

Trouble sleeping/fatigue

• Stay away from caffeine
• Take a walk a few hours before bed
• Drinking a glass of warm milk
• Eat a banana
• Get enough sleep each night
• Take a nap during the day

Trouble concentrating

• Take a walk
• Take a quick break to refresh your mind
• Do some deep breathing exercises
• Chew some gum

Constipation

• Take plenty of fluids
• Exercise regularly
• Increase your fiber intake

Increased appetite /weight gain

• Drink plenty of water
• Choose low calorie beverages
• Keep some sugar-free mints or gum on hand for you to pop in your mouth when you feel you're getting hungry

Keep in mind that the cigarette cravings are temporary and they do not last that long. Once you get past the first few weeks it will be smooth sailing and you will be on your way to a happier, healthier life.

As stated above, quitting smoking can have a negative effect on your appetite. For more information please visit our: Why Do People Gain Weight When They Quit Smoking page