Quit Smoking Without the Withdrawal
Nicotine is a highly addictive drug, just like cocaine or heroin. Some common nicotine-withdrawal symptoms include headache, insomnia, depression, dizziness and irritability. To make quitting smoking a lot easier, take these steps to avoid experiencing withdrawal symptoms altogether.
Instructions
1. Decide on a date and a plan to quit smoking. Are you going to use nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) treatments? If so, start the therapy about 1 week before your quit date. There are both over-the-counter and prescription NRT treatments that can help alleviate nicotine-withdrawal symptoms. Over-the-counter NRT treatments include nicotine lozenges, nicotine patches and nicotine gum. Prescription NRT treatments include nasal spray, inhalers and tablets. Talk to your doctor well before your quit date if you are interested in prescription NRT drugs.
2. Explore natural remedies to soothe nicotine-withdrawal symptoms. Some herbal supplements known to be helpful include avena sativa, lobelia, ginseng and gotu kola. Many people also find success in alleviating physical and mental withdrawal symptoms with alternative treatments like behavioral therapy, acupuncture and hypnotherapy.
3. Understand that NRT and herbs only deal with the physical symptoms of withdrawal. The psychological effects of quitting smoking can be just as troublesome. For the best chance of success, combine different treatments to address both the mental and physical symptoms of withdrawal. Talking to other people who are in your shoes can help keep your mind off withdrawal symptoms and give you more willpower. Look for a support group online or in your local area prior to your quit date. Tell your smoker friends not to smoke around you, and get rid of all of your cigarettes before your quit date to curb the urge to smoke.
4. Drink water or juice instead of alcohol or coffee, which are beverages that tend to inspire the desire to smoke. Find a different way to relax and relieve stress instead of smoking, like yoga, meditation or exercise. Stay distracted by taking up a hobby like gardening or knitting.
5. Reduce the urge to smoke by being prepared with plenty of oral substitutes. Stock up on items like toothpicks, coffee stirrers, straws, chewing gum, hard candy and cinnamon sticks.
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