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...
Hi everyone I have noticed over the last week quite a few are having a struggle with their quit, don't get me wrong I had my doubts on certain occasions, looking back at those times I now believe it was the nicodemon trying to get me to smoke again, and it was using different ploys at different times. One was putting the seed of doubt in my mind that I wouldn't be able to last much longer, so why put your self through the agony, save yourself some pain and start smoking now. Also I have after reading of someone slipping, been attacked by the nicodemon saying to me well they slipped up and smoked and they are giving up again you can do that just try one, Its so subtle its frightening. Well its almost 9 months for me and I know I am not in the clear yet, I know the nicodemon will try again, the one thing that gives me real confidence is the nicodemon is on his own, my strength comes from you all, and for that I am really grateful, and I recommend to anyone who is struggling use the strength of the group together we will win, we will all be non-smokers, and free. Viv
Something I've noticed about support groups is that slips run in clusters. One person slips, then another, then a couple more, until there are a rather significant number of them over a period of a few days. Then everyone gets back in their saddles and the quits are on again.
I believe this is, in large part, due to what you described, "...the nicodemon saying to me well they slipped up and smoked and they are giving up again you can do that..." I have felt that nag myself on more than one occasion and they were rather disquietening experiences.
That said, I strongly encourage anyone who is on the verge of slipping, or who has slipped, to come here as quickly as possible and in no uncertain terms let us know you're on a slippery slope.
If you have support friends you can reach on IM or telephone, do it! You won't be "bothering" them. There is no shame in asking for help.
And finally, if you do slip, don't beat yourself up! It is OK! REALLY!! Use it as a learning experience to strengthen your quit and hop back on the horse. Nobody here is going to be disappointed, let down, mad, upset, hurt, or whatever with you. We are all in this together. Today you lean on someone, tomorrow someone leans on you. That's how these groups work. ;-)
Blessings of strength, wisdom, patience, and joy to you all.
Shevie
Quit May, 2005
Love Deb
In the early days of my quit I received so much advice, help and support from people here at DS that I made it through (I am now approaching my 3 months)
The point is that people helped me when I was new and in turn I hope that I can help others when they are just starting out.
The only point I would make is that you also need to help yourself. Don't get me wrong. Help, support and advice is invaluable but it cannot replace the determination you must have yourself to do it. However much help and advice someone else gives you they cannot quit for you. They can help you on your way, listen and give advice when you are having problems but in the end IT IS DOWN TO YOU.
I will give all the support that anyone needs if they are prepared to give it their all. I will be here for anyone that wants to talk through their craves and difficult moments but none of us has a magic wand.
Contact us before you relapse not after.
I have even contemplated in staying away from this support group for a while cause reading about people smoking is making me want to have a cigarette.
Thanks Viv, great post!
Someone told me long ago..that breathing in and breathing out....is a gift of giving and receiving......so we are all getting our breathe back...and we are giving and receiving.....lets keep this quit up....and give and receive from eachother....