Tobacco cravings can be a killer when you are trying to quit smoking. It can be very overwhelming but remember that each time you resist, the stronger you are to resist the next time and quick smoking.
Here are a few tip to resist the urge to smoke or use tobacco when that craving strikes, no matter where you are.
- Delay. If you feel a craving coming on and you go to reach for that cigarette, tell yourself that you must wait 10 minutes. Then distract yourself with an activity for that period of time. Repeat as often as necessary.
- Don’t have “just one.” You might tell yourself that you just need one cigarette to calm your craving. But don’t fool yourself into believing that you will stop after one. Most than often, having just one, usually leads to another.
- Avoid triggers. Urges for tobacco usually occur where you smoke tobacco most often. Identify what these triggers are and try to avoid them or learn to get through them without smoking.
- Get physical. Physical activity is a great way to distract you from craving and can actually reduce the intensity of cravings.
- Call reinforcements. For moral support, talk with a family member, friend, or support group member.
- Try nicotine replacements. Try a nicotine replacement product instead of a cigarette. Some types include patches, gum, or lozenges. Prescriptions are also available through your physician.
- Chew on it. Give you mouth something to do to find the craving. Chew on gum or hard candy. Or try munching on some veggies, nuts, or just something crunchy and satisfying.
Doing something to fight the urges is better than not doing anything at all. Keep at it, and you will be tobacco free in no time!
