
Smoking Addiction & Recovery Support Group
The CDC claims that nicotine is a "very addictive drug" that can be "as addictive as heroin or cocaine." Nicotine is typically eliminated from the body within 2 to 3 days, however, physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms may last for much longer depending on the individual. If you are trying to kick the habit, this community is dedicated to giving smokers the...
divorce. It has lived with you all these years, now your divorcing it for a better life.
It is trying to make you so miserable you won't let it go. But your stronger then it, so kick it in the Butt real hard. Be happy have a great week end
DO NOT HAVE ANY DRINKS!!! Alcohol reduces your inhibitions and your control. I've seen so many quits lost over a few drinks.
You may well feel depressed. That is a normal symptom of withdrawal. It has to do with the nicotine's hijacking of the brain's pleasure/reward centers. You're brain will recover, but it will take time. Until then, accept it as a sign of healing which is a good thing. I know you don't feel like it, but please think of it in that way.
Also, reward yourself often (daily is good). Rewards act to offset the loss of nicotine in the pleasure/reward centers. Sort of like excercising an atrophied muscle.
Rewards don't have to cost much, they just have to make you smile. Window shopping, taking the scenic route home, a walk in the park, bubble bath, a cup of special coffee or tea, whatever makes you smile and/or gives you a warm and fuzzy feeling.
Keep in mind that you are doing an amazing and wonderful thing for yourself and those that love you. Quitting smoking is a very precious gift. Cherish and nurture it. You certainly deserve it.
Keep up the great quit. :)
When I quit, there was a stranger in my house--the real me.
It took me awhile to get to know her, but the real me has turned out to be far more fun to be around. Not at first. But, now.
The real me now uses her brain to search alternatives to smoking--which actually leads to experiences I would never have had if I'd just sat there and lit up a cigarette. She is more vibrant and exciting to be around. She can spend a whole day with non-smoking friends, without ever having to stop for a fix.
The real me has never been "bubbly". But, the real me has discovered that she controls how she chooses to be.
And, that's a good feeling.
Don't be afraid,it honestly does pass. Drinking won't help if you associate it with smoking (ohhh yeah, who doesn't)... just don't drink now as an answer. It isn't one.
You can do this....just keep going, you've made it 5 days. CONGRATULATIONS on a job well done.
Barb
don't even get me started
i quit many many drugs cold turkey
all at once
everybody said it was a mistake
but i felt like i had to do it that way
it was horrible
and i was such a bitch the first few days
and i wasn't me
but now
i'm at 27 days sober from everything
and i am more me than i have ever been
and it's not fair
addiction isn't fair
it doesn't care at all about you
which is why you need to kick it
i'm not sure the mental addiction ever goes away
people say "once an addict, always an addict"
and it makes me kinda mad, cause people can change
but it does have some truth
even now
all the physical cravings are gone
but there are still days where i want to pick up a cigarette or pop a pill
but you can't
because your old friend addiction will come back
and we both know he's not one who lets go easily...
Glad your sharing this, it helps me to know thatt I'm not alone. SG