Congratulations on your decision to quit smoking. It is a very positive change that you bring to your life and you will be amazed at the quality of life you will be able to enjoy without your dependence on nicotine.

However, nicotine is a very addictive symptom and can make quitting smoking difficult. It is important for you to know what to expect when you quit smoking so that you are able to handle it effectively. Don’t be surprised if you suffer from withdrawal symptoms for up to 10 days after you quit. It is normal for you to feel the symptoms of flu, upset stomach, etc. when you quit smoking. You are also likely to be irritable, anxious, angry and even depressed soon after you quit smoking. These symptoms will pass. You may want to consult a doctor if you are concerned about the effects of these symptoms on your health.

There are a number of quit smoking aids available that can help you give up your smoking habit. These aids include nicotine patches, hypnosis, counseling, herbal and non herbal medication. You may want to consult your physician and choose one of the aids that suit you the best.

Here are some tips to help you quit smoking:

1. Select a date and stick to it.
2. Talk to your family and friends about quitting and get their support. They are the ones who should understand best and respect your decision the most. So if your behavior changes a little bit due to anxiety or stress, they will know why.
3. Find someone else who want to quit smoking (or convince one !). You can be each other’s support structure. Exchange your experience and tips.
4. Take up another habit to substitute the habit of smoking. It can be simply to replace the oral fixation with sugar free chewing gums, or an activity of your choice.
5. Start exercising. This will help channel the excess energy you feel and make you fit as well. This should also lead you to drink some water, that is a great cleanser for your body.
6. Stay busy. This will help you keep your mind off smoking and getting tired by the end of the day will help you sleep better. There are countless activities if you take the time to think about them. What can you do at home ? What can you do outside ? Even the smallest task needs focus, and you are not thinking about smoking during this time.
7. Get some stop smoking products. These may be an additional help, and every help is good to take in your quest to quit.

Bonus Tip !

8. Reward yourself. What can you buy if you save the money you usually spent on cigarettes ? In one week, one month, one year ? Find potential rewards that can be used as your goals.