What to Do After a Smoking Relapse

avatar

by Jeffrey Buckley

Updated: August 7, 2020

man-vapes-holding-in-hand-pack

Smoking is one of the most addictive things in the world. Because of this, it may be very hard to stop once it becomes a full-blown habit. A very small percentage of smokers are able to quit smoking on their first attempt, they more often than not end in a relapse.

Relapse in this situation would be lighting up a cigarette while in the process of attempting to quit. Using a vaporizer to inhale liquid nicotine doesn’t necessarily count as a relapse, but it is not recommended to use one to help you replace smoking. Vapes are perfect variant for continuing the inhaling habit even with a zero nicotine liquids.

Relapse Struggle

Relapse can be a big problem for some. But the most important key is to stay positive after a relapse and believe that you have the power to put down the pack forever. The most important thing to keep in mind is that, according to research, your chances of quitting forever increase with each attempt.

Here Are Some Tips That Smokers May Want to Think About After a Relapse

 

  • Always stay optimistic about the situation. With a little determination, quitting smoking is possible for anyone.
  • Remember, you should not dwell on your relapse. It will only lead you to have a negative frame of mind that will not help you in any way. If you think negatively, you will just decrease your chance of quitting successfully.
  • Even if you have more than 1 relapse, it does not matter. According to experts, it usually takes up to four attempts before successfully quitting.
  • After a relapse, list all the reasons why you quit smoking in the first place. Read this list until it’s ingrained in your memory. This will help you remember your goals and reasons for stopping smoking.
  • Renew the commitment to quit smoking every day when you wake up during the quitting process.
  • 3 is the magic word. If you were able to endure 3 months of smoke-free days, there is a very high chance that you will not go into relapses.
  • Just like what we have mentioned earlier, do not be too hard on yourself. Relapses are just part of your journey to a cigarette-free life.
  • Throw away all cigarettes at home. This will help you avoid temptations, especially after a relapse.
  • Draw up a “No Smoking Contract” for yourself.
  • Do not rush yourself through the process, it’s important to wait for a time when you are completely ready to quit. This means dealing with any pressing issues that may cause you to relapse in the future.
  • Visit your doctor or other healthcare providers if you need help.
If you need help with your addiction to nicotine and smoking, or just help in quitting in general, you can get more information from the American Cancer Society. Give them a call at 1-800-227-2345 and talk with them about their “Break Away from the Pack” series where they give helpful tips and advice on stopping smoking and how you can achieve a smoke-free lifestyle.

Published: September 5, 2017Updated: August 7, 2020
avatar

Jeffrey Buckley

I was a smoker for over 25 years. In this time I also earned my medical degree with a specialization in addiction treatment and counseling. That period has led me to vaping, my interest started around 2011. I’m fighting the tide of hysteria and dis-information around vaping that emanates from various fronts legislative, cultural and scientific. Having scientific councils support, I’m happy to contribute my thoughts, articles, and expertise.

Comments

Leave a comment

0 comments on “What to Do After a Smoking Relapse

  • Oliver

    November 27, 2017 at 1:40 am

    I went 49 days and just smoked a half of 1 it felt decent but i definitely remembered why i quit. That false sense of relaxation that ends in body shakes and lomg insomniac nightz