When You Quit Smoking – What Day Is the Hardest?

Quitting smoking is not easy, as anyone who has tried can attest. The first week is definitely difficult as nicotine is in your system the most, but if you can get through it, you may be able to conquer quitting. However, which exact day is the hardest? Let’s take a look.
What Day Is the Hardest?
Before you decide to cut back on cigarettes instead of abandoning them entirely, you need to consider your reasons for wanting to reduce your habit. For example, are you looking out for your health? Are you concerned about the long-term implications of smoking- perhaps contracting cancer or other serious diseases? Are you worried that your habit affects the health of others around you or your relationships with them?
The First Week
That first day is probably the easiest one. After that, tons of people quit for just a day all the time. They mean to go the distance but trying to get through the second and third days is torture, comparatively speaking.
Your body is still full of nicotine and not craving much on the first day.
You are going to feel the pull of the habit, as your mind and body are not used to the change, but actual withdrawal symptoms will not take hold until the second or third day. This is because nicotine stays in your system for up to 3 days. The first day’s cravings are more out of the habit of smoking and not so much from nicotine withdrawal. However, the nicotine withdrawal symptoms will kick into full gear after the third day.
Moreover, those days are the hardest on your physical cravings. Your body will feel the need for nicotine, and it will go into a state where your body will try to cope with the changes that are happening. Your fingers will shake, your mind will be restless and edgy, and you will crave your cigarettes more than ever.

You have to keep in mind that this is just a temporary craving. The cravings come and go, and the feeling will not persist the entire day. If you can just get through each wave of craving, you will be able to conquer it. Things like nicotine replacement therapies work precisely to control your cravings or help manage them at least. Vaporizers are not approved smoking cessation tools, and they might even keep you addicted to nicotine, so think twice about using them to ease your cravings.
The cravings will be different for everyone, though. Some people will have no problem with the first couple of days. After that, they will coast right through and be able to quit just fine. After that, they will need a lot of support and willpower to resist the urges.
However, once you get through that first week, it is not all easy sailing from there. You still have a tough road ahead of you if you are serious about quitting.
The Second Week
However, your mind will feel the need to have a cigarette, which is something even the best vape can’t help you with:
- You will feel the mental cravings very strongly in the first week, and they will likely become even stronger by the second week. By this point, a lot of the nicotine has left your body, and it is mostly your mental state being affected. Your body may not need the cigarettes as badly, as you are shaking will likely have gone away almost completely at that point. However, your mind will feel the need to have a cigarette.
- You will likely be hungry and have specific food cravings, particularly for sweets. It is okay to give into those cravings a little. You want to fight the stress you will be feeling, and some sweet food can help with that. Since many smokers end up confusing hunger for wanting to smoke, eating fruit and vegetables will kill the urge. It’s speculated that since the fiber in fruit and vegetables keeps the stomach feeling full, the urge to smoke is reduced.
- You will be in a constant fight with your mind during the second week, so you need to keep distracted. You can go to places you have not been to before or visit old friends. Just try to keep your mind off smoking and avoid the triggers that make you want to go back to it. Also, you can check out some tips and tricks here to help you.
The symptoms vary from person, and they depend on how long you were smoking for and how heavily you smoked. Of course, the more smoking you did before you quit, the harder it will be to quit, but once again, your personality and willpower play a big part in how well you will cope.
If you find yourself doing particularly poorly, make sure you get some support; talk to friends or join a quit smoking community to find the support you need to keep you going. If you spend a lot of time alone, the cravings may worsen, and giving into temptation may be easier, so find a hobby to keep your mind off it.
3 Weeks After Quitting Smoking
3 weeks of no smoking is an important milestone. It means that you have gotten past the worst parts of nicotine withdrawal. Of course, you may still be experiencing some minor cravings, but you should be able to power through them using the strategies you’ve learned. On the positive side, you may also notice things like your breathing getting better, your energy levels are higher, and you may have what’s known as 3 weeks of “no smoking skin,” which means you have clearer and blemish-free skin.
Before you decide to cut back on cigarettes instead of abandoning them entirely, you need to consider your reasons for wanting to reduce your habit. For example, are you looking out for your health? Are you concerned about the long-term implications of smoking- perhaps contracting cancer or other serious diseases? Are you worried that your habit affects the health of others around you or your relationships with them?
The First Week
That first day is probably the easiest one. After that, tons of people quit for just a day all the time. They mean to go the distance but trying to get through the second and third days is torture, comparatively speaking.
Your body is still full of nicotine and not craving much on the first day.
You are going to feel the pull of the habit, as your mind and body are not used to the change, but actual withdrawal symptoms will not take hold until the second or third day. This is because nicotine stays in your system for up to 3 days. The first day’s cravings are more out of the habit of smoking and not so much from nicotine withdrawal. However, the nicotine withdrawal symptoms will kick into full gear after the third day.
Moreover, those days are the hardest on your physical cravings. Your body will feel the need for nicotine, and it will go into a state where your body will try to cope with the changes that are happening. Your fingers will shake, your mind will be restless and edgy, and you will crave your cigarettes more than ever.

You have to keep in mind that this is just a temporary craving. The cravings come and go, and the feeling will not persist the entire day. If you can just get through each wave of craving, you will be able to conquer it. Things like nicotine replacement therapies work precisely to control your cravings or help manage them at least. Vaporizers are not approved smoking cessation tools, and they might even keep you addicted to nicotine, so think twice about using them to ease your cravings.
The cravings will be different for everyone, though. Some people will have no problem with the first couple of days. After that, they will coast right through and be able to quit just fine. After that, they will need a lot of support and willpower to resist the urges.
However, once you get through that first week, it is not all easy sailing from there. You still have a tough road ahead of you if you are serious about quitting.
The Second Week
However, your mind will feel the need to have a cigarette, which is something even the best vape can’t help you with:
- You will feel the mental cravings very strongly in the first week, and they will likely become even stronger by the second week. By this point, a lot of the nicotine has left your body, and it is mostly your mental state being affected. Your body may not need the cigarettes as badly, as you are shaking will likely have gone away almost completely at that point. However, your mind will feel the need to have a cigarette.
- You will likely be hungry and have specific food cravings, particularly for sweets. It is okay to give into those cravings a little. You want to fight the stress you will be feeling, and some sweet food can help with that. Since many smokers end up confusing hunger for wanting to smoke, eating fruit and vegetables will kill the urge. It’s speculated that since the fiber in fruit and vegetables keeps the stomach feeling full, the urge to smoke is reduced.
- You will be in a constant fight with your mind during the second week, so you need to keep distracted. You can go to places you have not been to before or visit old friends. Just try to keep your mind off smoking and avoid the triggers that make you want to go back to it. Also, you can check out some tips and tricks here to help you.
The symptoms vary from person, and they depend on how long you were smoking for and how heavily you smoked. Of course, the more smoking you did before you quit, the harder it will be to quit, but once again, your personality and willpower play a big part in how well you will cope.
If you find yourself doing particularly poorly, make sure you get some support; talk to friends or join a quit smoking community to find the support you need to keep you going. If you spend a lot of time alone, the cravings may worsen, and giving into temptation may be easier, so find a hobby to keep your mind off it.
3 Weeks After Quitting Smoking
3 weeks of no smoking is an important milestone. It means that you have gotten past the worst parts of nicotine withdrawal. Of course, you may still be experiencing some minor cravings, but you should be able to power through them using the strategies you’ve learned. On the positive side, you may also notice things like your breathing getting better, your energy levels are higher, and you may have what’s known as 3 weeks of “no smoking skin,” which means you have clearer and blemish-free skin.
Quitting With Quit Smoking Products and Without
Nicotine gum, nicotine patches, and nicotine lozenges are just some of the products people use to help them quit smoking. Typically, people should start using these products on their quit day, which is the first day they stop smoking. They are intended to help people manage their cravings and withdrawal symptoms and should be used under the supervision of a medical professional.
These products can be used for up to six months to help people control urges, but they should eventually be discontinued. People may feel nervous about giving up nicotine replacement therapies, and the first day without a nicotine patch can seem like the first 3 days after quitting cigarettes. But the withdrawal symptoms will eventually subside and go away.
Nicotine gum, nicotine patches, and nicotine lozenges are just some of the products people use to help them quit smoking. Typically, people should start using these products on their quit day, which is the first day they stop smoking. They are intended to help people manage their cravings and withdrawal symptoms and should be used under the supervision of a medical professional.
These products can be used for up to six months to help people control urges, but they should eventually be discontinued. People may feel nervous about giving up nicotine replacement therapies, and the first day without a nicotine patch can seem like the first 3 days after quitting cigarettes. But the withdrawal symptoms will eventually subside and go away.
One Cigarette a Day – Is That Okay?
Every cigarette you smoke is harming you. There is no safe amount. Every cigarette builds up tar inside your lungs and brings you that much closer to cancer, emphysema, and other serious medical conditions.
If you want to stop that, then you have to put a stop to your smoking. It is that simple. If you need help quitting, there are many ways to get that help. You can start with those around you who want to see you quit and who care about your health. Build a support group there and seek out further help if it is needed.
You can find help through various quit smoking organizations. Every state has its own dedicated quit smoking network you can use for help. On top of that, there are national agencies and support groups near to you.
You can also employ quitting aids, such as nicotine patches, chewing gum, and more. You do not have to quit alone, but you should quit. Cutting back is not the answer to the problems that smoking is causing you. Only quitting can help. If you are serious about changing your life and impacting your health and your future, you need to quit, not just cut back.
Every cigarette you smoke is harming you. There is no safe amount. Every cigarette builds up tar inside your lungs and brings you that much closer to cancer, emphysema, and other serious medical conditions.
If you want to stop that, then you have to put a stop to your smoking. It is that simple. If you need help quitting, there are many ways to get that help. You can start with those around you who want to see you quit and who care about your health. Build a support group there and seek out further help if it is needed.
You can find help through various quit smoking organizations. Every state has its own dedicated quit smoking network you can use for help. On top of that, there are national agencies and support groups near to you.
You can also employ quitting aids, such as nicotine patches, chewing gum, and more. You do not have to quit alone, but you should quit. Cutting back is not the answer to the problems that smoking is causing you. Only quitting can help. If you are serious about changing your life and impacting your health and your future, you need to quit, not just cut back.
Breaking the Habit
They say it takes as long to break a habit as you spent forming it. So with that in mind, you could be fighting a long time, but at a certain point, it will become much easier, and the cravings will subside faster and be much weaker.
After the first two weeks, your constant cravings will probably start to subside. You may still get some occasional strong cravings, but the worst of it is likely over. By the four-week mark, if you have managed to stay mostly smoke-free that long, then your chances of conquering the habit are extremely good. Congratulations, you earned it.
They say it takes as long to break a habit as you spent forming it. So with that in mind, you could be fighting a long time, but at a certain point, it will become much easier, and the cravings will subside faster and be much weaker.
After the first two weeks, your constant cravings will probably start to subside. You may still get some occasional strong cravings, but the worst of it is likely over. By the four-week mark, if you have managed to stay mostly smoke-free that long, then your chances of conquering the habit are extremely good. Congratulations, you earned it.
Frequently Asked Questions
I quit smoking. Why do I feel worse?
Your body has to adjust to life without cigarettes, especially if you’ve been a smoker for a long time. Quitting can lead to several unpleasant withdrawal effects like anxiety, restlessness, even depression, but these effects are manageable and will pass eventually.
Is it normal to feel worse after quitting smoking?
Yes, it is normal to feel worse after quitting smoking, whether physically or emotionally. Breaking an addiction, especially to something like nicotine, is a difficult thing to do, especially after a long time. The body is used to nicotine and craves it, and it will begin presenting withdrawal symptoms that can feel unpleasant, but they will pass eventually.
How long do nicotine withdrawals last?
2 weeks is the timeline that most former smokers begin to feel their nicotine withdrawal symptoms subside. However, the first few days are the toughest in terms of experiencing cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
Why do my lungs feel worse after quitting smoking?
Your lungs may feel worse because they were not functioning correctly when you were smoking, meaning they did not or could not remove mucus from your airways. But now that the smoking has stopped, they will start to move mucus and other contaminants out of your lungs, which means you will begin coughing more than usual. It is important to understand that it’s unnecessary to suppress this cough, as it is part of your body healing itself after a long time of smoking.
How long does smokers’ flu last?
A smokers’ flu is a set of nicotine withdrawal symptoms similar to the common cold or flu-like congestion, cough, runny nose, etc. Some people may develop these symptoms, but most people do not. The symptoms may feel like the flu, and they may be intense, but they quickly pass, usually within a couple of days or a week, at the most.
I don’t smoke, but I’ll take a puff. Is it bad for quitting?
Taking a puff of a cigarette is very bad for quitting, especially if you are in the middle of a quit attempt. It’s not the physical consequences of taking a puff that is bad but normalizing the behavior. You may think it’s okay to take one puff, but then you take another and another, and then you’re smoking a cigarette. You should stop smoking entirely and not allow yourself even a single puff of a cigarette, especially when trying to quit.
When do nicotine cravings stop?
Nicotine cravings will generally stop after about a month of no smoking. Peak cravings – when you feel the most desire to smoke – occur during the first few days or weeks of a quit attempt, and they generally subside after that.
So which one is the hardest day of quitting smoking?
Most people agree that quitting smoking is the hardest for the first few days. The cravings are intense. The withdrawal symptoms are their most powerful, and the days feel endless. But getting through those first few days is the most important.
I quit smoking. Why do I feel worse?
Your body has to adjust to life without cigarettes, especially if you’ve been a smoker for a long time. Quitting can lead to several unpleasant withdrawal effects like anxiety, restlessness, even depression, but these effects are manageable and will pass eventually.
Is it normal to feel worse after quitting smoking?
Yes, it is normal to feel worse after quitting smoking, whether physically or emotionally. Breaking an addiction, especially to something like nicotine, is a difficult thing to do, especially after a long time. The body is used to nicotine and craves it, and it will begin presenting withdrawal symptoms that can feel unpleasant, but they will pass eventually.
How long do nicotine withdrawals last?
2 weeks is the timeline that most former smokers begin to feel their nicotine withdrawal symptoms subside. However, the first few days are the toughest in terms of experiencing cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
Why do my lungs feel worse after quitting smoking?
Your lungs may feel worse because they were not functioning correctly when you were smoking, meaning they did not or could not remove mucus from your airways. But now that the smoking has stopped, they will start to move mucus and other contaminants out of your lungs, which means you will begin coughing more than usual. It is important to understand that it’s unnecessary to suppress this cough, as it is part of your body healing itself after a long time of smoking.
How long does smokers’ flu last?
A smokers’ flu is a set of nicotine withdrawal symptoms similar to the common cold or flu-like congestion, cough, runny nose, etc. Some people may develop these symptoms, but most people do not. The symptoms may feel like the flu, and they may be intense, but they quickly pass, usually within a couple of days or a week, at the most.
I don’t smoke, but I’ll take a puff. Is it bad for quitting?
Taking a puff of a cigarette is very bad for quitting, especially if you are in the middle of a quit attempt. It’s not the physical consequences of taking a puff that is bad but normalizing the behavior. You may think it’s okay to take one puff, but then you take another and another, and then you’re smoking a cigarette. You should stop smoking entirely and not allow yourself even a single puff of a cigarette, especially when trying to quit.
When do nicotine cravings stop?
Nicotine cravings will generally stop after about a month of no smoking. Peak cravings – when you feel the most desire to smoke – occur during the first few days or weeks of a quit attempt, and they generally subside after that.
So which one is the hardest day of quitting smoking?
Most people agree that quitting smoking is the hardest for the first few days. The cravings are intense. The withdrawal symptoms are their most powerful, and the days feel endless. But getting through those first few days is the most important.
What if feelings of depression get worse or don't get better?
Quitting smoking that is rarely discussed is the mental health effects as real as the physical effects of quitting smoking. When you attempt to quit smoking, you should set up a support network of family and friends to encourage you along the way. Studies have shown that people who receive daily text messages of support and positive reinforcement have better outcomes than those who do not receive help.
You should also familiarize yourself with helplines and other support lines that can give your professional support on managing your withdrawal symptoms like anxiety or depression. You can always call (1-800-QUIT-NOW) to get professional advice and support to help you with feelings of isolation or loneliness. Many people are willing to help you, and you should not hesitate to reach out if you feel you need support or someone to talk to during this trying time.
Quitting smoking that is rarely discussed is the mental health effects as real as the physical effects of quitting smoking. When you attempt to quit smoking, you should set up a support network of family and friends to encourage you along the way. Studies have shown that people who receive daily text messages of support and positive reinforcement have better outcomes than those who do not receive help.
You should also familiarize yourself with helplines and other support lines that can give your professional support on managing your withdrawal symptoms like anxiety or depression. You can always call (1-800-QUIT-NOW) to get professional advice and support to help you with feelings of isolation or loneliness. Many people are willing to help you, and you should not hesitate to reach out if you feel you need support or someone to talk to during this trying time.
Britney
March 11, 2022 at 9:10 pmOn day 9 after quitting for the first time, been smoking since I was 10 to 21 and i was relatively easy the first week, my appetite has changed. If anything I’m less hungry because I want that after food cig and I know I can’t have it. Struggling pretty bad today though and it’s been rough. I feel like my depression has definitely worsened. Can’t wait till this feeling is over with and I’m past the mental shit
Hope
February 4, 2022 at 2:29 pmI smoked for way too many years quit for 6 months however my husband who has been gone 4 years now never listened to doctors was a very heavy smoker 2+ packs per day. Not even thinking about it I picked up a cigarette but his smoking didnt help me. Today is day 6 of quitting cold turkey i am glad the weather is crappy and real cold so i can’t go get any. Sometimes the cravings are worse than others. Just gotta deal with it 1 craving at a time
Raju
October 4, 2021 at 1:05 pmI am trying to quit smoking. So far for last two months I haven’t smoked. But the temptation is very much.
Dawn
July 22, 2021 at 6:29 pmThe status quo belief that nicotine stays in your system for days is false. This is why nicotine replacement is useless.
99% of nicotine is gone within 24 hours from the body. Most of it dissipates within 20 minutes, which is why most people crave a cigarette about every 20 minutes.
If nicotine withdrawal is so hard you wouldn’t be able to sleep during the night.
It is not nicotine withdrawal that makes it hard to quit smoking.
It is the fact that your brain thinks it needs nicotine In order to deal with any situation.
It’s a completely mental game to quit smoking.
Highly recommend people that want to quit smoking or vaping to read Allen Carr’s easy way to quit smoking.
Jeff
December 17, 2022 at 2:21 pmI agree with you 100% on Allen Carr’s book. I think it’s the best book ever written from an ex-smoker for smokers who want to become ex-smokers. Like you said, quitting is completely a mental game. I am on day 18 today.
Derek
April 14, 2021 at 9:31 pmGreat to hear someone talk about the second week. The governmental health narratives generally stop at 3 days to a week for cravings. Needs a bit of proofreading though. Some of it sounds like it was written by a China-man.
LaLa
December 11, 2020 at 11:25 pmHello Everyone,
Your post have been so helpful and inspiring. I have quit smoking for about 5 days now and today is one of the worst day with the cravings. I am glad I stumbled up on this article because I was just about to give in. I had been smoking about 10 cigarettes a day that turned to 15 and I said that was enough and quit cold turkey. I had been using cigarettes’ for about 7 years on and off.
James Bickford
December 28, 2020 at 5:20 amHi LaLa, thanks for writing in, so glad to hear that you are taking the brave step to quit smoking. The first few days are the hardest so congrats on making it through. We’re here to give you help if you need it, just let us know. Take care and stay strong!
Lorenz123
August 31, 2020 at 5:49 amI smoked from age 17 to age 22 a pack a day, and then quit for ten years. Then I smoked for a year, and quit again for a couple of years. Since then i typically fall again and smoke for a month or two and then quit for a year or two. Im 44 and quitting has become a habit for me and its not longer too hard, however its easy for me to fall again, especially if I drink too much. I figured out that once I gather the will power to stop, I have to resist 3 tough cravings, and if I overcome those, the rest is easy because not smoking is also a habit I have built. It takes 1 month for me to completely forget about it.
This summer I started again and have smoked for a month, and now I am quitting again. I am on day 2 and finding it relatively easy. Still have the metallic taste in my mouth. I am waiting for the first serious craving to come along.
Tom
May 19, 2021 at 5:21 amYes, I’m the same – I’m on week two of quitting again, after a month of smoking.
I often say “Quitting smoking is easy. I’ve done it loads of times!” 🙂
Hope
February 4, 2022 at 2:08 pmToo embarrassed to say how long i smoked i stopped for 6 months but my husband was an ext heavy. Smoker. Just picked it up not even thinking about it. Today is day 6 of not smoking. My husband died 4 years ago. I am not using any patches gum or anything. It’s just me now and i refuse to buy them anymore. Hopefully I can keep it up
Michael
August 8, 2020 at 7:08 amFirstly, a massive well done to you all for taking the step – it’s hard and there will be pitfalls but you will get there. I stopped (forever) smoking 21 years ago after smoking for 30 years and was on 50 a day when I quit – at the 50th time of trying!! (New Year/Birthdays etc).
Three things happened in one day which made me stop – maybe it was a ‘sign’ lol.
1. An elderly neighbour asked me to help push her small car back into her driveway after it broke down as she reversed out. I did and it nearly killed me – I thought my lungs were going to burst! The lady was more concerned about me than her car.
2. My landlords (I had a room in their home) were heavy smokers (as I) and told me they were giving up that day. I didn’t really like the lady and said I would try too. She told me I didn’t have the b***s to do it and she would win. That was my ‘trigger’.
They both caved in after a week but I have never smoked since. She hated that.
3. I had my 9yo son in the evening (I was divorced) and I had a few cigarettes left. I knew I would need more so got my son out of bed to go to a local garage at 10pm. It was absolutely pouring with rain. Halfway there, I thought what am I doing? I was getting my son soaking wet through just to go and get cigarettes! I turned around and went home with him.
I never went for the cigs and never smoked again after that. That was in June 1999.
It is hard folks but as you stay stopped it really does get better. My lungs improved and my son is so proud of me he has never smoked. Yes, I put on a little weight but far better that than a life of pain.
*A month after I stopped I bought a brand new TV for cash from the money I had saved – felt brilliant!
Sorry to ramble on, but I am proof that it can be done.
Keep going. You CAN do it.
Kaye
July 10, 2020 at 5:42 pmI’m on day 6 with no cigarettes, but I have lost my taste and smell for the last 3 days now. Weird timing because of the virus going around for sure considering those can be symptoms. thoughts anyone?
Debbie
December 31, 2020 at 10:27 amGod bless…lm going through this now l have to do this its the hardest thing I’ve done been smoking for 42 years even embarrassed to say that shame on me…
James Bickford
January 18, 2021 at 7:56 amHi Debbie, thanks for writing in. We’re so glad to hear you are taking the important step to quit and you should be proud of yourself, not ashamed. Like you said, quitting tobacco is one of the hardest things to do and it takes a lot of willpower and support. Feel free to write to us if you have any questions about quitting or you can also read one of our online quit smoking guides. Remember, you are not alone. Stay strong and take care.
Louise
May 12, 2020 at 4:14 amMy 4th day after smoking 30 cigarettes for 39 years. Not so difficult so far.
Lisa
April 24, 2020 at 6:49 pmHi my name is Lisa.Today would have been my 4th day .Got upset n let myself fail I had a cigarette.I feel horrible.Os there any advice or some words of encouragement to tell me to continue please
Syed Abbas
May 2, 2020 at 12:45 pmHi.Its all about will power..without will power
None can help.
Get into a habit of saying NOOOO 2 cigarette.
It’s been 1 month for me without smoke…
I have kept in my mind that I ain’t a slave of cigarette..
Pick up a hobby. ..
WILL POWER n only WILL POWER..
N its month of RAMADAN so in complete control of myself.
Any1 can quit a habit..let your brain overcome your heart in this case.
Good luck fellows..
Paul
July 23, 2020 at 5:34 amDont ever feel discouraged, its all about reflecting on why you had that cigarrete,
remember, only 3% of quitting attempts are successful,
think about the triggers and attempt again, and again and again until you become that 3%.
Book an appointment with the quit smoking service of your GP practice where they can provide you with advice and some really useful materials.
Ash
August 24, 2020 at 2:16 pmI don’t believe it’s just willpower. Willpower alone didn’t help me conquer my harder addictions—part of it for me was surrendering, admitting I was helpless, that I needed help from a higher power. Any higher power, even one only you know. Talking to them when I am super craving. To help me through. Praying for just one more day in the morning, being thankful for one more day at night.
And that’s it.
Pray for strength for just one day.
And then pray for strength the next day.
lorenz123
August 31, 2020 at 5:57 amHI Lisa, you should try again, but remember a similar challenge will come along, getting upset, and you need to figure out how you will resist it. Think that the craving and being upset will eventually pass and if you resist one single time you will come out of it stronger. You will need to overcome at least 3 tough cravings, after that you will have build the habit of resisting and things should get much easier.
Nikhil
April 13, 2020 at 9:16 amIf you want to quit smoking … 1st you need to hate the smell of Cigarette…. And 2nd when you want to smoke up the Cigarette remember the smell yaaak…. And eat something drink juices that’s it…. Cigarette is not a addiction it’s a trap… You need food or drinks whenever you feel you want cigarette ✌️ day 4 I dnt want to smoke this shit yaak teste … I guess I do meditation so that’s the reason no craving in my body ✌️
I am retarded and addicted
April 8, 2020 at 12:25 pmI’m a dumb-ass college student who, through the stress of pre-grad work, got quickly hooked on the JUUL. I am on day eight since I have went cold turkey. The starting of this second week has me feeling some type of way. Online classes have me stressing tf out and with all this lab work I just want nicotine lmao. Wish me lots of luck haha it doesn’t get any easier after the first week. This is my first attempt at quitting and if I can go this long with my addictive-ass personality you can too you fucking fiends.
Renee
April 5, 2020 at 8:48 amI am 48 yrs old been smoking since age 16. I am on day 4 of quitting cold turkey. Iv had a liss of appetite n now acid reflex that is the worse but nothing more than that. Iv tried before to quit anf could never get past day 1 so i hope i can do it this time. I know its only going to get harder from here for the next few weeks or months but im determined. Is the acid reflex normal to get when you quit smoking? Thank you and good luck to all of you . Sincerly Renee
Michael
June 10, 2020 at 6:35 amI have the same problems
Robin
May 10, 2021 at 9:04 amI have quit one time for two years, am going to be 66 end and f may, been wanting to quit seriously, for about 5 months now today is Monday at 9am haven’t had a smoke since Saturday afternoon 2pm yes jonesing for a smoke, doing cold turkey
Lester Cruz
March 27, 2020 at 9:16 amI just started to quit smoking currently on my 5th day… I hope it would be easy for me, well I have been smoking only for 3 years so I thought it would be easy… We can do it guys!
Anderson Mohammed
March 24, 2020 at 7:03 pmDay 30. I’m feeling better but when I think about it is when I miss that drag. I’ll be strong wish me luck.
CeeCee
March 30, 2020 at 11:19 amGood luck! You got this.
Your friend in NYC
March 22, 2020 at 10:26 amDay 6 and determined to make it. Hasn’t been that difficult but the heaviness in my chest hasn’t changed yet. Look forward to updating you all once the heaviness has gone away.
Proud of everyone on here that has tried regardless of whether you’ve succeeded or not. Don’t give up. Our health is more important than a lousy cigarette. Stay strong folks.
Rons
March 20, 2020 at 1:06 amtoday is 73 days i stopped smoking..
stress, deppression, mood swing, sad, stomach problem like acid reflux keep coming, they are often appear in this last days, but the effects felt is reduce,
not like the first month..
oh god pls help me…
doug
March 13, 2020 at 4:22 amday 5 for me. having anxiety issues, a liitle shortness of breathe at times , foggy head and restlessness. I am using the patch. I am determined to do this. my sense of smell has definitely improved. first 3 days I lost my appetite, but that has returned. this is so freaking tough, I had smoked for 42 years and I have had enough. hopefully I will get thru this, I am trying to stay strong.
sp
March 14, 2020 at 7:29 amon my 7th day, not using patch or any other alternative.
i am walking whenever i feel urge i go out for a brisk walk, drinking lots of water. i keep water bottle with me all the time.
Luc
March 5, 2020 at 4:40 amDay 25
On nicotine patch.
Gained 6 pounds. Will not give in but it’s very difficult……. I miss my 45 year old toxic friend.
I have succeeded at many difficult things in my life but never at this one.
Today I have permanent pulmonary obstruction disease that cannot be reversed. Luckily I am only at phase one and even though it cannot be reversed, I can stop the progression.
I cannot give in…..
I WILL MEET my future grandchildren.
CeeCee
April 1, 2020 at 3:12 pmI hear you. The cigs really weren’t our true friends they tricked us for 40 plus years. Who needs them…not us. Be well.
Nicko
February 26, 2020 at 2:20 amToday is Day 23 for me. Heavy smoker for 24 years, quit cold turkey. Hey, am I not supposed to feel even a bit better by now?? Struggling to concentrate at work, moody and irritable. Actually mostly feel like smashing someone, anyone in the face. Tired all the time, mouth ulcers, bleeding gums. Lordy, let it get better….
Anthony Fenech
August 15, 2020 at 1:46 pmhow did u do by now?
Ray
February 23, 2020 at 3:17 pmI’ve made it 27 days and it’s getting a bit easier! Finding gum and reading is very helpful! I Just keep Thinking of all the miserable health problems I’ll hopefully avoid.
Liliana
February 20, 2020 at 3:32 amDay 4 not really feeling anything, just headache & tired , mind over matter is getting me through it X
Michael
February 11, 2020 at 8:24 amDay 4 I don’t have any cravings for a cigarette but I’m getting headaches and it’s been hard to sleep is this normal?
Clare
February 8, 2020 at 11:25 amI’ve smoked since I was 17 and I’m 38 now 25 a day, omg day two and three was really bad, I get cravings all the time lasting 45 seconds, I carry my tin of roll fags with me and when I get stressed I sit and think ill drink my coffee before I smoke by the time I’ve had coffee craving a need has gone, don’t get me wrong hardest thing I’ve ever done, I tell people I havnt give up I just don’t want to smoke at the moment.sounds better.
sheila
February 6, 2020 at 7:27 pmOmg! Day 22 and finding I am having another rough evening…For the past 3 nights its been horrible…I I lwas really hoping by now the cravings i’m getting would be easier..Some are easier but when evening rolls around i’m finding its way more difficult….Not sure what to do at this point…help please!!
Cindy
February 9, 2020 at 6:44 pmSheila, I am at day 5. I hope that when I get to day 22 it get easier, but I would like to share this with you. Find an app on mediation, and when you have these cravings at night, take a minute to meditate. I find this works for me. Just find a quiet place in the house and listen to the app. It will help to calm you and take away the urge. Keep me posted.
sheila
February 14, 2020 at 1:19 pmHi Cindy, I am now at day 30 Whoo hoo! Looking back at day 22 seems so long ago…I’m doing much better and found that i’m not getting the kind of cravings that were driving me nuts anymore..I now get thoughts along with the craving but shut them down mentally pretty fast…You should be on day 13 now if you continued on..Let me know how your doing…My coughing has gotten much better and I definitely notice when I’m at the gym I am no longer getting winded fast…Smoked approx 14 cigs a day for close to 40 years and quit very little amounts of time during that 40 years too! So far i’m doing good and all I can say is God is good! He has been with me this entire month guiding and helping me to get to 30 days…Let me know how your doing….
CeeCee
April 1, 2020 at 3:19 pmHi Sheila,
I’m CeeCee and I am on day 7. So looking forward to being at day 30 or more. How are you doing? Are your cravings gone yet? I heard it took approximately 3 months to get through the cravings. Do you think that is true? Does it get easier?
I.j
April 5, 2020 at 11:02 pmYeah, it get a lot easier.
Remember your third day? Now 8th which is much easier?
Next week will be so much easier.
First week is hardest and second week is half as hard.
After couple of weeks it is easy ride
TBlair
February 5, 2020 at 11:38 amIts been a month today. Harder than anything I have ever done. I had smoked for over 38 years, quit cold turkey. Not one day has gone by that I do not think about them. I want one so bad. But I would be so upset with myself if I did.
Bev
February 1, 2020 at 8:54 amI’m on day 15 and this is the absolute worst, physically and emotionally, hanging tough with support and a positive attitude thinking about my health and how much money I will save to spend on trips and fun!
Ray
February 12, 2020 at 11:36 amWith you! Ending day 16 here and it suuuuucccckkkkks. Can’t stop eating. But not gonna give in. “I don’t want want one, I don’t need one”! is my motto!
Steven
January 23, 2020 at 3:54 pmI quit 6 days ago Cold turkey. the cravings have gone down . Days 2 -3 were the hardest to the point of mild depression, but day 4 until now have not been so bad. I get an occasional , “want to smoke” but it passes relatively quick. I been using toothpicks to keep my hands and mouth occupied.
Ray
January 13, 2020 at 6:14 pmI’m on Day 60 and just frigging miserable. I’ve been doing everything I can to stay quit. I switched from coffee to tea, started chewing gum and drinking lots of water. No help.
What’s worse is that it seems everyone has started smoking. It seems everywhere I go somebody is lighting up. Ughhh!
After smoking for 35 years, I was diagnosed with emphysema, so I don’t really have a choice.
Thanks for letting me vent. Keep strong everyone.
Bill
January 30, 2020 at 8:51 pmHi, tough ain’t it? I am on day 39….I get a craving and it goes away fast. Hang in there after 1 week it is much better. I too was admitted with pneumonia and was told I will have big problems if I do not quit. DO not give in.
Neal Owen
January 11, 2020 at 1:41 amI don’t think stopping smoking is as bad as what is being made out in this article. I found it easy. It is a case of mind over matter. Keeping busy is the key.
Dh
June 26, 2021 at 11:42 pmWell said, this article exaggerates the symptoms of withdrawal. I previously quit for 9 month and it was very easy. Started again and now I am on day 3 without cigs. Remember that when you quit you’re not giving up anything, you’re getting rid of a crutch. Also when I quit I don’t deny myself tho ha like coffee or alcohol. You need to get used to them without cigs from the start. And absolutely no NRT, cold Turkey is the only way
Daniel B
January 7, 2020 at 1:39 pmOn Day 6:-) it’s been a little tough as I have been smoking for 25 years approximately 20-30cigs a day… I decided to quit cold turkey and with no aids whatsoever. Not easy, but I’m doing ok. To be honest I thought it would be worse. I still think about cigs multiple times a day but I think back at the negatives which help me not light up. I still carry cigs with me everywhere but refrain from smoking. Good luck to everyone who is trying to quit.
I’ll keep pushing back any smoking thoughts , fingers crossed 🙂 x
Carrie
January 10, 2020 at 9:19 amHello Daniel,
Just checking in I am on day 8 now after 26 years. There is no way I could carry a pack of smokes on me and not smoke them. My biggest struggle is when I stop at gas stations out of habit I want to purchase a pack. Well I hope you are still smoke free! You can do this! its all about our mind show the brain we are in charge
Anna
January 21, 2020 at 6:07 pmOmg me too those first well 7 trips to stores in the 7 days I’ve been quit and the time in the car. I’m hanging in w patches but I’m determined
Karen
February 4, 2020 at 10:33 amToday is my 4th day smoke free. I am 55 and have smoked for 41 years. I am with Carrie, NO way that I could carry cigarettes on me and not cave in: WAY TO GO DANIEL!!!! I have decided on cold turkey, as well. And yes Carrie, stopping at the gas station and not getting cigarettes will be daunting. That’s just what I always did. But, NO MORE! And Anna, riding in the car, as soon as I would get in I would light up. I have to do this! Thankfully, it hasn’t been to excruciating. I do think about a cigarette MOST of the time though. I am truly giving up my best friend. Not many others that I am around smoke, just me. Glad I have that on my side!
Romit
December 11, 2019 at 1:52 amHie
It’s 6 day of I quit smoking
Though I used to smoke 1 a day after my lunch
But due to stress of family I used to smoke 2 a day since last 3 months
With that smoking I used to chew bettel nut ( non tobacco) too
I have quit smoking completely since 6 days only.
And reduced my bettel nut chewing .
M not getting any carving sense of smoking but I get for chewing bettel nut . How can I over come that ?
I have minor pains in sides of my tummy just above the waist that too partially behind not front.what could be this ?
Also how to improve my lungs that I have damaged due to my bad habits
Suggest me some fruits or food
Sandra mcnay
November 30, 2019 at 1:49 pmHey…I came to this site today because it’s all I can do to not get in the car and go buy a pack. Let me start at the beginning, I’ve been smoking since my teens, and I’m now 71. In my lifetime I have tried to stop countless times. I’ve never smoked more than a pack a day. Two years ago I was diagnosed with COPD. I don’t really have any symptoms but have noticed a shower has me breathing harder, so I decided to try to quit again on national smoke out day. (as I usually do on this day) so, today, my 10th day, I miss it more than ever. I have no family left, no support group, only people I know walking by, SMOKING. Feeling like the only thing I had to look forward to each day, is gone forever. I know, I always get depressed when I quit, and the insomnia I always get with (and never stops)does not help. Thanks…needed to vent so that I won’t get in the car right now. ?
Kristin
December 19, 2019 at 5:43 pmI am reading this blog because I too miss smoking sometimes and read articles to help me get past a ” bad ” day.. I want to say that I am very proud of you for trying to quit and I hope you succeeded this try and if not I hope you try again !
Jake
January 3, 2020 at 4:51 pmGood job! Hope you keep it up!
Krista
March 28, 2020 at 5:22 pmHi,
I was wondering how your doing? Have you kept up with quitting? I am on my second day here of not smoking. So far I’m ok with it probably because I have been cutting back for the past six months in order to quit.
claire
November 26, 2019 at 2:59 pmjust wanted to know does anyone else have a problem with food since giving up smoking? i am in the second week and can only eat onion soup or mashed potato as my sense of smell and taste are so acute that if i try to eat anything it tastes revolting if yes can you tell me how long this will last as i am very hungry!
Divinity
November 14, 2019 at 2:31 pmHello Quitters: How is everyone doing. Today makes 6 months and 17 days for me. This journey has not been easy. I still get craving maybe once or twice a day. But they are not the
lose your mind cravings. I can drink a glass of water and it will pass by the time I am done drinking it. So lets say they are more of a wicked thought than a craving. I yearn for the day that I can get through one without thinking about cigarettes at all, but that will be so hard to do when everywhere that I turn someone is smoking. From the time I leave my house in the morning until I return in the evening there is always someone smoking somewhere. If you are on this journey with me just wanted to wish you all good luck. Do not give up. If you really want to quit smoking it is possible. Just walk with God, pray and stay away from those that smoke. Congratulations to all of those who are smoke free. Let’s all be smoke free for life.
John O'Donovan
November 13, 2019 at 9:44 amHi Christiana, I was wondering after reading your post an the posts of many others on this subject, how many of you have experience with quitting smoking. I’m beginning to see a trend with the articles and that is I don’t believe that anyone of the authors knows from first-hand experience what it is like to quit. I am on day 13 right now and I can tell you that yesterday/last night was the WORST day, not day 1 nor day 3. But in all of the articles, not One mentions that day, they all mention basically the same thing. This makes it quite clear that each author is cherry-picking their information from everyone else’s posts. There doesn’t see to be one original thought from any of you. Not that that’s surprising or anything but it makes me wonder why there is no one out there that I can easily find who I can trust.
Is this the best info that’s out there on this subject of smoking cessation and if so why.
It’s an insight to all posts on all topics by people who don’t seem to have real experience but they pose as an authority on said topic.
Do you have any comment on that, I’d be genuinely interested to hear your point of view on that topic.
Paul
January 9, 2020 at 9:26 amHey John,
I am a lifelong smoker giving up (9th day) for what seems like the ‘hundredth’ time, probably more like the 10th time in 30 years I’ve actually made it past a whole week!
I hear/feel your pain & I suspect you have a valid point.
I also suffer from Alcoholism, 13 months sober, so I can say…… that using the toolbox learned from/with AA is helping me.
Good luck brother. Your irritation at the author is probably part of the addiction/disease talking too!
Bev
February 1, 2020 at 8:52 amI feel you, I’m on day 15 after smoking for 48 years, today has been the absolute worst, have lots of support, just trying to keep it positive, hang tight, you can do this!
JSW
October 31, 2019 at 1:24 pmBelieve it or not – I never smoked – took up vaping back when it first rolled out, thought it was a novel idea. Yeah, no so sure about that anymore. On day 3 of stopping for good. A week in total, but used some nicotine replacement therapy lozenges for a few days right after stopping vaping to help ease into in. Then dropped those all together as well. Hasn’t been horrible, has been a challenge to try and ignore and keep on working and taking care of business. Busier = better though, less time to slip up. I do have good support network, everyone knows I’m stopping so everyone’s helping me stay accountable. I could literally eat a raw tobacco plant right now though I’m pretty sure :). Update again soon….
Em
October 20, 2019 at 12:24 amI did not experience many of the withdrawal effects mentioned in this article. It really isn’t as bad as you portray. Shaking hands? Be careful. You may be scaring people away from quitting the parasite that is nicotine.
Suzie
October 6, 2019 at 10:25 pmThis quite a negative article. Not very supportive or encouraging. Next!
Dika
October 2, 2019 at 5:41 amDay 2.
Yesterday, I tried something I saw a long time ago in a movie. Whenever I feel like smoking, I say to myself; “Yes, smoke. Smoke as much as you like, my friend.” Then I pretend to hold a cigarette and strike a REAL match stick to my IMAGINARY cigarette.
When I tried this yesterday, I inhaled the imaginary smoke like I normally would and the weirdest thing happened..I felt that light mental buzz as if I was really smoking.. (Placebo? Shyt I don’t know)
For every imaginary smoke I have (had 9 yesterday, 7 today until 14:30) I throw R1.50 in a coke can.
Been smoking since 2012 (was 24 years old, believe you me I don’t know why I started this shit..)
I’ll tell you how it’s going 21 days later.
Good luck to all of you guys. Always remember that what works for everybody else might not work for you, so keep trying all these methods until you find yours
JIKis
September 12, 2019 at 5:55 pmEnd of 2nd day no smoking. Quit several times in the past but this time is different. I am 42yrs old and won’t let this POS control my life any longer. It doesn’t matter how hard.
I am truly done.
dan
September 12, 2019 at 10:25 amWanted to find out what the worst day is and all i found out from this is that the 2nd week is worse than the first. thanks for nothing.
Eko
September 9, 2019 at 9:33 pmI have stopped smoking for 154 days. I was smoking for at least 30 into 40 sticks per day. But, because of stress, I have great urge to smoke again in the past several days.
But, I am very happy and grateful because I can resist to the craving.
KTG
August 28, 2019 at 11:27 pmThis article doesn’t encourage you but tells you how awful yoiur going to feel and the cravings NEVER go away. I’m on my 2nd day and i feel great. I make love to my girlfriend and it was awesome. Quitting is the best and smartest decision I’ve made in a long time.
Trust, i do feel the cravings but i drink coffee and that helps a little. BE strong, steadfast and abounding in the Word of the LORD and you can do all things thru Christ that Strengthens you…
Going into Day #3 and i wont be defeated.
Divinity
August 27, 2019 at 8:20 amHello everyone on this quit journey. Today makes four months for me and I am so proud that I have made it this far. Of course I have incentive to keep going, I am doing this for my health and the fact that I want to live and keep living. Cigarettes only do damage to every part of us there is nothing good about smoking a cigarette. I know I still have a long way to go to win this battle it has only been four months but I will not give up. I want to be smoke free for life. I want a clean, smoke free life where I am not looking for a smoke morning, noon, or night. I want a normal life without cigarettes. Besides the fact that I have saved over $1,000 in four months and much more to come. Now I will have money to spend during this life that I am prolonging by not smoking all day, every day for the rest of my life. Please put the cigarettes down. Smoke Free For Life Everyone.
Micheal
August 22, 2019 at 12:58 amDAY 3. Been smoking since i was 19 (31 now) – so just broke a 12 year habit. I was smoking about 20 cigs a day. This has been the hardest day so far, but my smell, taste and skin sensations are incredible. I forgot what it was like to breathe deep. Food tastes heavenly. Even the wind on my skin is a new and strange sensation (showing exactly what cigs do to your nerve endings). When cravings hit I keep telling myself how dirty, filthy, smelly and disgusting those things are and I want my health to continue to improve. Cravings usually only last for a few minutes then completely disappear – you just have to accept that they are there and deal with them.
Donna
August 19, 2019 at 7:27 amDAY 2, I managed to go into the gas station this morning and NOT BUY cigarettes. The owner even had mine ready for me. Here it is break time and I am sharing this moment with you rather than stepping outside to go get some or bum one from a coworker. Very hard but I think I can , I think I can, I think I can!!!
Divinity
July 29, 2019 at 1:32 pmHi all just checking in on this quit journey. This site gives me an outlet to just talk sometimes when I need it. I have made it to 92 days now, three months without a cigarette and I am very proud of myself. Just don’t understand when the feeling of losing my best friend will disappear. I get these feelings of depression, loneliness and boredom that I have never really dealt with before. All because I am not smoking a cigarette anymore. I hate the fact that a cigarette had so much control over my life. I refuse to start smoking again. I only want to do this once and succeed it is too hard as it is. I pray to god that I can win this battle and so can all the rest of you. Just don’t give up. Cigarettes are killers.
Divinity
July 25, 2019 at 8:59 amI am on day 85 of not smoking after 30 years. I still get cravings. Some days are really good and some are bad. I used the patch for the first eight weeks and it really helped me. Have been off the patch for about five weeks now. I thought by now it would be a breeze and it would be easy, but everyday I have to make myself stop thinking about cigarettes and focus on other things. When I am at work its easy because I cannot smoke at work. I take long walks whenever I get a craving and it really helps to calm me down. I am 57 years old and just had surgery for removal of lung cancer now doing some chemo. I have to be strong and not smoke anymore for myself, children and my grandchildren (I have 2 of them). Trying to change my life for the better which includes not smoking anymore. NOT ONE MORE CIGARETTE. I pray for all of us on this quitting journey. We can do it especially for our health. Good Luck.
Katrina Edwards
July 21, 2019 at 3:29 amGoing into day 12 it seems harder, first 4 days were easy then day 5 hit in and wow, so got some Champix it doesn’t seem to do anything been on it for 7 days and I swear the cravings seem worse think I am going to stop taking them and just try without anything, thought after 10 days would be easier by now.
Greg Hansen
January 6, 2020 at 3:44 amHANG IN WITH THE CHAMPIX, YOU WILL SEE AND FEEL THE DIFFERENCE.
jaise
July 14, 2019 at 2:19 amNot a long time smoker…but started pretty late at around 30 .. have smoked for just about 4-5 years but want to quit now to be able to have a safe pregnancy.
42 hrs since last puff now but still not sure if i will be able to make it.
most of my my smoking is work triggered and i dread going to work tomorrow 🙁
Karen
July 2, 2019 at 10:56 amI am working on my 12th day of no smoking and for some reason today is very very hard for me. My mind keeps saying just one to verify you really want to quit and that when you smoke it, it will do nothing for you…. I know that my mind is a fool but it is getting harder to argue with it. Keeping in mind that I am doing this not only for me but for my fur kids and family. Taking a walk to get some water in hopes that helps. 🙂
DEBORAH
June 19, 2019 at 11:23 amIT’S DAY 7 FOR ME AND THE PAST COUPLE OF DAYS HAVE BEEN A NIGHTMARE. I CAN’T SLEEP AND I’M REALLY HAVING BAD CRAVINGS .. I WON’T SMOKE, THOUGH. I’M DONE!!! I’VE GOT GREAT REASONS TO STOP; GOING TO THE STORE FOR SNACKS & WATER….
MZ
June 12, 2019 at 2:01 amIt is my 45th hours of getting away from my last cigarette. That’s the first time I ever tried in my 25 years of smoking. Amazingly, I am not feeling that much of a problem apart from few random niggles. Just within 12 hours of quitting, I started feeling the outright benefits. Clear breathing, regular pulse and high craving for physical activities and loving every moment of my life now. Never gonna be that chimney again 🙂
Ken
June 7, 2019 at 12:02 pmFirst time quitter and I’ve been smoking cigarettes for about fifty years. Its day ten and I’m really feeling the urge. Drinking water for me really helps. Walking also helps. Doing chores doesn’t work at all . I used to reward myself with a cigarette after doing the vacuuming or the dishes – I still want to now. My dishes are piling up and my apartment is getting dusty, Reviewing why you decided to quit helps. The expense – here in Ontario a pack of 25 is about $16.00 – one a day for 365 days = about $6000.00 a year. Can’t go anywhere – no smoking in bars, hotels, restaurants and pretty soon in condos. The health concerns! Became a grandfather and need to be smoke free around my grandchild. This quitting has been long overdue and I’m hoping for success. Good luck to everyone else.
Ridhaa
June 1, 2019 at 3:33 amI’ve had two “nightmares” of relapsing, I feel so disappointed with myself it’s not even funny but, when I wake up… I feel even prouder
Don’t quit! We can do this guys ? think about the future, about the doubters and most importantly about yourself. ?
Ridhaa
June 1, 2019 at 3:29 amBeginning of week 3 is the hardest for me
s
May 17, 2019 at 8:31 ami havent smoked for 3 weeks and i ran into an issue the other day and bought a pack of cigarettes and smoked 4 im so upset with myself
wilma
January 25, 2020 at 10:41 amkeep going your fine. 4 in 3 weeks, just ignore that and get back at it….keep going!
Morad
April 29, 2019 at 2:51 pmI’m on day 8 after 20 years smoking. I quit cold turkey this time because I want to live with my loved wife and beautiful kids. I’m 38 years old and If I keep smoking I will have only 10 or 15 years at the max to live with them. I love my family and they still need me my support!
San
May 3, 2019 at 12:12 pmWell done ?? keep going your doing great
Alec
April 18, 2019 at 1:09 pmIt’s been four and half weeks since I smoked. I was a smoker for 45 years. I can say it was really hard at first, but after the 2nd week, it got easier.
Courtney
April 27, 2019 at 9:44 pmThursday april 25th was my 2nd week of no smoking. I smoked for 22 years and I’m struggling this wk. Go job onto smoking. It’s very hard but I actually feel so much better. I do miss it so that’s what’s going to b hard for me.
San
May 3, 2019 at 12:16 pmFirst off well done ??, I am so glad to hear that I’m on day 7 after 20 years of smoking 20 to 30 a day, I’ve never givin them up before so this is my first time I decided to do it cold turkey myself and I have to say the week has been easy as I was so sick from withdrawals I didn’t want a smoke but today I really want to smoke and I can’t stop eating I’m glad another week or so and I won’t feel as bad
Kg
April 18, 2019 at 9:33 amThis article is not very inspiring, in fact it tells us not to bother quitting. I think we over complicate it and if we made it through 1 whole day, we can make it through everyday. I am on day 3, mornings are toughest, but I just have to get up and move and the thought goes away very quickly. Dont replace cigs with food, replace with activity.
Jol
April 17, 2019 at 11:00 amStopping DOES make you fat
totol
April 11, 2019 at 4:57 amI’m just on 2nd day, and feeling terrible headache dizziness and lot more uncomfortable feeling all day…still confident i’ll overcome….
Ian2019
March 8, 2019 at 8:33 amThe first two weeks were kind of plain sailing as long as I took it an hour at a time. Nearly at the end of my fourth week, I have been sleeping as much as possible to escape the strongest and hardest week of cravings yet, what’s more, I find myself hallucinating, I am sooooo tired, drained, can’t concentrate, I am slowly ready to lose it. All my friends are smokers, so I can’t go visit them, or have a beer as I am so tempted to start smoking again, I just really want to put my head under the duvet until this part of my life disappears, and im no longer addicted to nicotine.
I am using the patches as a substitute, but its getting more difficult as the week’s go on. Due to also being on anti:deppresants, I’m not allowed to use champix, despite the already existing suicidal feelings. If this doesn’t get easier, I fear I am going to start smoking again, despite the damage I’ve already done to myself via smoking. The struggle continues….
Lyra
January 4, 2020 at 10:21 pmIan, how is it going? I hope you are staying strong!!!! If you did start again don’t beat yourself up because you will try quitting again and again until you succeed! Quitting is a journey not a one day process. Good luck!!
cindy
November 22, 2018 at 5:05 amon day 4. Im reading the comments that criticise vaping. Without vaping I would have cracked in 30 mins. Im planning on putting the vape down some day too but I know myself well enough not to try it yet. Good luck everybody whatever method your using.
Jatya
November 18, 2018 at 4:40 pmThis is day 8, no smoking at all. I quit before for two years and I a year ago I fell off the wagon. The weird thing with me is that the first two weeks are relatively easy, it gets harder with time.. the longer I go the more I miss it.. last time after 3 months I was dying to have a cigarette and I did but that was it and I managed to quit. I am assuming my mental addiction is much harder than my physical one.
JODI
October 25, 2018 at 6:48 amso day 22 cold turkey, smoked for 30 years, I swear each day my cravings get worse… but everyone else’s get better??
Gene
November 4, 2018 at 1:34 pmSorry to hear that Jodi. I’m on day 6 after smoking for over 40 years. It’s not easy for sure. I was hoping that after 22 days the worst part would be over.
Dave Williams
October 24, 2018 at 2:07 amOn day 3, coming off a 30 year 20 a day habit. I feel like sh*t.
I have tried to quit once a year for the last 20 years. Longest period was 11 months. Shortest – half a day! Currently on Champix (for the 2nd time). Have tried gum on a couple of occasions as well as Zyban. Gone cold turkey a number of times and tried an e-cig (which was aweful).
Currently writing this for no other reason than to keep my hands busy. The alternative, rather than lighting a cig, is to go wrap them around someone’s throat and to squeeze as hard as I can. I can feel the moodiness approaching like a freight train. Trying to put on a brave face and smile at people but when I see a smoker I feel like biting into their neck and sucking the nicotine from their body.
Last time I quit for a substantial period I put on 10Kgs. I have this horrible thought of being a fat, grumpy dithering idiot for the rest of my life.
But…
It will come right. I will not kill anyone. I will not get fat. I will beat this habit. I will be happy. I will have more cash to waste on prostitutes and beer – just remembered I don’t drink so I can’t fall back on that one.
Oh well, here is to another day!
Good luck to everyone out there.
Wanda Sturges
October 26, 2018 at 9:44 pmDave how is going with you.
Carrie
November 13, 2020 at 12:35 pmThis favorite response!
Kristy
October 23, 2018 at 4:28 amI’m on day 7 I have smoked 30 a day for 26 years and I am feeling great the first 3 days were hard but I battled Through I have quit before for 2 years so I think knowing I have done it and can do it makes it much easier this time around good luck to you all hope you are all going strong it is for a better life wouldn’t it be amazing if one day the world doesn’t even remember what smoking was ?
Myz
October 14, 2018 at 11:21 amBeen smoking for 9 years, 1/2 pack / day. Quit cold turkey 6 days ago. From what I’ve read, most if not all of you don’t have any cigarettes at hand, as if you quit after the last cig or threw them away. From experience, not having any cigarettes causes a lot more stress/anxiety than to have them at hand but choose not to smoke. Whether that made it easier for me or not I don’t know, I also don’t know if it’ll work for you, but thought I’d share my method atleast.
ness
October 10, 2018 at 10:33 amDay 7 after 14 years of smoking (28 y.o.). Day 4 was fer sure the worst – spent hours looking for cigarettes in my stuff – car, laundry, etc. Lucky me, I lost my ID – so I cant even buy new ones-, gave all my cigs to a friend, and had the last pack accidentally go through the wash. I don’t know how to do anything w.o smoking all of the time. How do normal people drive cars? What do normal people do on their work breaks?
My relationship with food is so screwed up! I can’t eat too much, or I’ll want a cigarette. I also have to eat all the time – way more times a day or I feel really sick and my blood sugar just tanks. I had no idea I was using cigarettes to mess with my blood sugar so much!
Worst part is probably headaches and nerves. I can’t stand my girlfriend right now! What a pest.
damnit. I liked sleeping, too!
Rose
September 30, 2018 at 2:28 am20 hours without a cigarette. I am dying… tempted to go to the store & get a pack.
Majdi
May 12, 2019 at 8:17 amAfter 7,5 months, did you quit?
Smoker
September 21, 2018 at 4:14 pm4 months smoke free.. you always need a reason to take a big shot.. its not been easy journey but if you find a good reason to stop it you will do it eventually.. i was smoking 20 cigarettes a day and without any therapy switched to 0(Yes Zero), it was a planned murder of cigarette , because i want to make happy living with my to be wife and she hates it , also i can feel the difference in my lifestyle , craving didnt stopped yet but i am sure i will make it through:)
Dan
September 21, 2018 at 3:17 pmHey everybody please keep this in mind. May not help everyone, but it helps me. One day at a time, that’s it. If you didn’t smoke yesterday, then why can’t you do it again today? Of course you can! Don’t worry about tomorrow.
Felix
September 17, 2018 at 8:46 amI’ve smoking for 15 yrs non stop. I started thinking about quitting on my 30th birthday. That was 2yrs ago. I’ve been tobacco free for 5 days and it isnt that hard for me. I do get the cravings, i feel sad, and also y feel lethargic or spaced out. The medical cannabis has helped me. I got the license and brought $40 of cannabis (aprox 3g) and any time i would like a cigarette i puff some cannabis. It doesnt help that much on the physical but it helps me on the mind. Also I read blogs and videos on youtube about quitting, positive effects etc
Haisam
September 12, 2018 at 3:03 amI am 35 i smoked for 20 years 1.5 pack/day .. I tried 9 – 10 times to quit smoking and sometimes to 4 months but I was back .. I searched for the reason inside myself and I found that forgetting motivation is the main reason .. Now I am on the 9th day “cold turkey”and no one supports me even My wife.. everyone around me make fun of my attempts and say that I am only tired myself ..i know it is very hard but I did not despair and I will continue to try to become free .. Thank you and sorry for my poor English
Majdi
May 12, 2019 at 8:20 amHey, after 8 months, did you quit?
Bob
September 9, 2018 at 8:43 amI don’t agree at all with this author. After the first day or two nearly all of the nicotine is out of your system already.
What makes quitting hard is getting over the brainwashing that it has caused making you feel like you need that chemical, that it brings excitement or pleasure.
To Quit alll you have to do is not put nicotine in your body again. Within a few weeks your body will forget what nicotine does and you will rewire to be happy and healthy without it!
I smoked heavily for 10 years, I realised it doesn’t matter how much or long you’ve smoked for. To Quit, literally just do not have another cigarette, otherwise you put the nicotine back in your system and you go through withdrawals again. THE CHEMICAL WITHDRAWALS DO NOT/ CAN NOT LAST without the drug.
Best wishes to everyone
Vicki
September 7, 2018 at 3:13 pmI’m going on almost 3 full days of not smoking. The craving is worst than day 1 and 2. I’m really having a hard time today.
Felix
September 17, 2018 at 8:47 amKeep it up, Vicki.
Im cheering for you!
Gene
September 4, 2018 at 7:45 pmSmoked for 34 years and decided to quit Aug15th. So its 21 days and for some reason its a rough one for me. The go to lifesavers, trail mix, and pistachios arent helping.
Bill W
August 30, 2018 at 9:57 pmFor me day 4, day 12-14, day 30, and roughly day 90 have been rough. I’m now at day 136 without a cigarette. Haven’t had a craving since day 90. I still smell cigarettes at stoplights and love the smell but don’t actually want one. Just force yourself through the first few months and it seems to go away. I’ve been offered many cigarettes along the way and I just remembered how much better my vape tastes and say, “no thanks”.
Paul
April 24, 2019 at 1:39 pmSo you are still a nicotine addict then.
Neal Owen
January 11, 2020 at 2:11 amLike he or anybody else needs you to point that out.
Dave
August 23, 2018 at 12:42 pmhi all – Day 14 of quitting @ 40 years old. ( after 25 years) Have had 3 cigs in 14 days and i feel good – but here i am getting cravings just as much now as I was on day 1. its not easy but I can now see the importance of not smoking. Started to run and it has increased my determination to quit 10 fold. I have succumbed to the candies too – but i guess its better than falling back and smoking.
Also
Quitting_4the_team
August 22, 2018 at 6:25 pmSo I am trying to quit, me and my husband are both smokers and we are doing this together. I told myself today I’ll quit but cold turkey is kinda hard; I slipped and smoked two cigs already… a lotttt less than what I would have smoked any tips on the morning cig, I think that’s going to be the hardest one not to smoke… good luck to everyone! With the help of god we can get through this.
Dana L Wilder
August 22, 2018 at 12:36 pmStarted smoking when I was 16, smoked for 18 years, quit for 7, started back and smoked for 8 more years. Started having problems with my heart rate being too high, had a stress test done, came back abnormal, had a heart cath done only to discover I have had a heart attack sometime in my past! Doc put 2 stents in and I will go back in 4 weeks for another stent…………I AM ONLY 49! Doctor told me if I picked the cigarettes up again he could almost guarantee me that I would be on his operating table with my chest split open. That was enough to make me quit! As of today, it has been 4 weeks….sure I miss them but living sounds a whole lot better. Good luck everyone, this is the hardest thing I have done, I never should have picked them back up 8 years ago!
ronnie
August 22, 2018 at 4:16 amreally struggling smoked for 50 yrs ,got a wake up call when diagnosed with lung cancer, on day 4 ,can’t sleep craving very strong but hanging in ,feeling more positive after reading all the comments ,cheers
marcel
August 22, 2018 at 3:46 amI smoked for 11 year I stopped smoking during 11 Months, then I started back for one month. Now I stopped again this is day 3. Very hard my God
Peter
August 21, 2018 at 2:18 pmHi Guys,
I had my 1st sig today and loved it. Worth the wait
Keep on keeping on
Alex
August 21, 2018 at 1:07 pm16 years smoking nearly one pack a day. This is my third attempt this year and 2 attempts last year. I hope this one will be the good and final one!
It’s day 9. I just wish to be over with the cravings. I’m trying to go running everyday to evacuate the stress.
Good luck to everybody. Not so easy.
Sarah
August 19, 2018 at 4:08 pmI’m on day 2 quitting cold turkey. Have been a pack a day last 20 years. 1st day was pretty easy but today, ive been thinking every way I can go and sneak one but I refuse to do it. Nothing in life worth a damn will be easy. So good luck to all!!
tally
August 7, 2018 at 12:28 pmMe too..Day 3. I need serious help.
Annie Winiecki
August 4, 2018 at 11:18 amI know gross… I’m a girl and I have been chewing for 15 years…. I decided 6 days ago to quit (because I’m trying to get preggo). I quit cold turkey which wasn’t as bad as I thought OVERALL! I basically have lived off sunflower seeds, jolly ranchers, tic tac, gum, and breatth mints for the last 6 days!!!!! Sooo my brain is still getting the habit of I’m bored throw a chew in, I’m driving throw a chew in..etc.. I’ve just replaced the chew. Every now and then I’m like I NEED a chew!!!!! Right now is currently that moment so I guess I’ll go do dishes to distract myself and eat a jolly rancher lol!!!! Its rough but its only hard when i have down time to think about it!
Phil
August 4, 2018 at 5:04 am25 Years smoking, its day 3 Off them cold turkey and it’s got personal between me and the little white stick. There is no way something I can squeeze and destroy in seconds will beat me. Feeling sweaty, itchy and have pain on left arm and chest at times. It really tells you what damage your doing. Say a prayer for me all.
Heather Mathes
August 3, 2018 at 3:30 amDay 4 is almost over. It was my hardest day by far. Its such a lifestyle change and Im so tempted to go get a pack right now! ?
Patrick
August 2, 2018 at 8:30 pmI smoked for 14 years…started the day I turned 18. I just turned 32 and I lost my grandfather to lung cancer 2 years ago and now my grandmother has it..stage 4. My mother quit, my father quit and now it’s my turn! I’m on day 2 and trust me it’s been rough. Im using the patch and and I’m also on welbutrin. Welbutrin is helping tremendously…I’m not on edge or irritable at all. I also have a 2 year old and a 9 year old daughter and I want to be around to see them succeed in life. To all who have quit..keep up the hatf work and determination and the results will be wonderful!
mike
July 30, 2018 at 9:15 amI shall go mad!!!
Crista
July 26, 2018 at 11:47 am40 yrs old 15+ years smoking. Im on day 4. Today is the hardest so far I feel dizzy today and extremely thirsty. The cravings are pretty bad but I’m pushing through. I will do this!! Good luck to you all ♥️
mika
July 30, 2018 at 9:10 amAlso day 4. Can not really work, so hungry, tongue is dry.
Jenny
July 25, 2018 at 8:30 pmI smoked for about 20 years decided in may 2018 to quit my dr subscribed chantix I took it one week and decided to do it on my own 61 days smoke free
Kristin
July 24, 2018 at 5:35 pmI’m on day 6 of quitting smoking. Today had been the worst for cravings. I know it is all psychological. I smoked for 22 years, 1/2-1 pack a day. I’ve tried quitting before. This time is cold turkey, I’ve tried everything to quit even hypnosis, this has worked the best for me so far. I just try to avoid situations that trigger the need to smoke.
AKBANI
July 24, 2018 at 7:50 amI’m smoking since I was 14 years old. Now I’m 25 and I’m on the 10th day of cold turkey. I’ve never tried this before but I’ll quit this for sure. Looking forward for some good weight gaining tips. Thank you!
Millie
July 22, 2018 at 10:21 amIm am on day 3 and it is the hardest so far ive been ready everyones comments and im sounds like it may get a little easier from now, i cant see it!! Ive had welling up today and so many thought to just stop all this a pick up a fag but i dont want to let my kids down my eldest has been asking me for years to quit so i really dont want to let him down.
Steven
July 21, 2018 at 3:32 pmI am on day 7 of quitting. Doing good and feeling good, I am using a vaper with no nicotine for the extreme cravings and I must say its worked out well, if I get a craving I take 1 or 2 hits off the vaper and craving goes away immediately. I only get the urge maybe once of twice a day now and I can feel that tapering off as well. Even tho vapers are not approved or whatever I feel they help more then patches or gum that still contain nicotine and vapers are way cheaper in the long run.
Khanyisa
July 18, 2018 at 1:43 pmSo after 4 years of smoking I’ve decided I must quit or I’ll be stuck in this loop for eternity, willingly putting harmful toxins into my body. It also bothered me having no control over my own decisions. So I’m done and I hope I stay done forever. Sometimes I forget why I’m quitting…
Rachael
July 18, 2018 at 10:57 amDay 3, on the patches and the mints. Today has been hard. Starting to feel a little ratty now.
I’m knackered too! Is that a side effect?
Karen
July 17, 2018 at 4:14 amI actually think this is a bad article. Your opening line is that day 1 is easy….which is a great way to deflate a quitter who has successfully got through their first day smoke free. Shaking? Really? Mental torture? I’m sorry, but this is just scaremongering – these kind of articles are what prevent smokers from quitting by fueling the fallacy that it’s going to be torture. YOU ARE NOT GIVING ANYTHING UP, YOU ARE GAINING YOUR FREEDOM!
Kim
July 30, 2018 at 1:49 pmExactly, I am 42 and have been smoking for 26 year about 1/2 to a pack a day. I am on day five and although it hasn’t been a walk in the park it hasn’t been as bad as I thought it would be . I read Allan Carr’s book through for the second time now. My sister read through the book last year and has been quit for over year now, we have passed copies on to my mother and aunt and a few uncles who are still smoking. I think the key is that you will have cravings and they will be more or less intense for different people depending on your mindset. You just have to let them pass and they go away and become less frequent and you always have to remember that you must not give in and have even one puff !! Please read the book it definitely isn’t magic but it really helps you through the illusion that smoking gives you any benefit whatsoever !! Oh and I am quitting cold turkey ?
Bill W
August 30, 2018 at 10:11 pmI don’t know how long it has been since you quit but I can say for myself that you feel like you are giving up everything you know. This article let’s you know what is coming. It’s not a walk in the park. You have to commit to forcing yourself through the rough times and know that they will pass. I used a vaporizer to get past the rough patches, started on 12 mg and now carry 3mg with me. Twenty years of 1-1 1/2 packs a day and now almost 5 months without a cigarette. I had tried probably twice a year for well over 15 years to quit. Articles like this that flat out realistically tell me what to expect are helpful. It sucks to quit but if you focus on quitting and not the cravings it’s possible. And most importantly find a substitute that works For You!
Side note I have lost 10 lbs since quitting, you don’t have to replace cigarettes with food, food won’t help the cravings, in my past attempts I have found (for me) it just made it harder.
Lindzie
July 14, 2018 at 4:46 amSmoked since I was 9 will be 31 in August, just been 3 weeks without cigarettes, on vape pen with low nicotine, but only use once or twice a day, think iam gonna go cold Turkey. I didnt somke that much when i did smoke cigarettes a pack would last me 3½days if i didn’t bum them. But i have three kids and its not heathly for them to b around. So wish me luck
derek mcmahon
July 12, 2018 at 9:57 amI am 79 and this is my 5th day without a smoke. I have smoked for 73 years and have tried before but now I have Asthma and it is hard to breath when the humidity is up past 75 degrees and am finding it hard as I tried to give up in the summer when the humidity was around 25 % and I did not feel any better after 3 days so I started smoking again so if you are in the same situation try giving up when the humidity is low if you can
Best of luck to all derek.
Félix
September 17, 2018 at 9:07 amDerek you arr an inspiration
Chathu
July 12, 2018 at 1:23 amIts beginning of my 4th week of cold turkey quitting of Meth Weeds and Nicotine/Alcohol. Glad to see you all trying to quit. My target is only 2 months, but seems I can achieve it.
Ab
July 11, 2018 at 8:32 pm37 yo Female. Smoking for last 15 years. Been wanting to quit for the longest. I would quit for like 2-3 days & then start back up. I recently purchased the stop smoking hypnosis session from ******..,. I listened to it daily for 3-4 days (still smoking) and then stopped listening to it for whatever reason and was still smoking regularly. About a week after I stopped listening to the audio session, I woke up one morning and just didn’t want a cigarette. That was June 9th 2018 and I haven’t smoked since!! 32 days so far
Debbie
July 11, 2018 at 7:23 pmDay four here. Days two and three were the worst. I have a lot of apologies to extend to co-workers. And I thought PMS moods were bad. Holy crap! lol Not so bad today. Each time I felt a craving I took deep breaths and reminded myself why I have committed to quitting. Yesterday I was feeling sick to my stomach, dizzy, foggy brained, etc. One of the medical providers at work told me to cut my patch by one-third and I did. 21 mg is too much for me. Another thing I noticed is that the sound of my television annoys me. Weird but okay. Easy enough to power off. Good luck to everyone! You can do this!
Charles
July 11, 2018 at 12:07 amAfter smoking 1 1/2 packs a day for the past 32 years and trying to quit about a dozen or so times…. I woke up 2 days ago without the craving for a smoke. I figured, best time to quit, when I don’t want it anyhow. Moving into day 3 tomorrow and still going strong. Keeping myself and my mind busy so I don’t think about it. It might stick this time. Costs too much to smoke anymore. When I started, it was $1.65 a pack, now the same brand is almost $7. The things I could spend that money on. Good luck to you all! Only you have the power to make yourself quit.
Shelby Seward
July 10, 2018 at 6:29 pmI have been smoking a pack a day for 15 years. I have never tried quitting before and I tend to get very angry when I go more than two hours without one. I started taking chantix 2 weeks ago and the first week was normal for me smoked a pack a day. When I reached week two I noticed that the cigarettes where starting to taste very badly and not give me very much pleasure. By the end of week two I was down from a pack a day to just three cigarettes a day. Today is the first day of week three for me and I decided this morning was going to be the last cigarette I’m going to smoke. I tossed all cigarette parifanelia and I have had some cravings but I have managed to distract myself so far. I just need to know is this going to get easier because I feel like it never will.
Diana Elam
July 10, 2018 at 4:43 amI have never had a want to quit. I’ve smoked for 16 years. I would smoke a pack a day. I am on day 27 of being cigarette free. This is the first time that I put them down. I only get the urge after a meal. Other than that, doing good
Alice
July 9, 2018 at 3:55 pmFirst day of no smoking with patch. I am so tired of smoking i want to be free i am a grandma and don’t want to smoke or smell near my grandkids so I need every bodies support and encouragement and advice
Bron
July 8, 2018 at 9:59 amJust about to start Day 3. Been smoking for 30 years, tried to quit about 4-5 times before, this time determined to succeed. Felt like I wanted to punch someone a few times today. Not to mention the brain fog, dizziness and anxiety, only had a few cravings that I was able to distract myself with something else. My house has never been so clean.
Bron
August 6, 2018 at 6:27 amCracked after 2 weeks. Back on Day 3 again. Dizziness and brain fog, yes. Everything else not too bad as yet. Have been exercising and meditating this time, maybe thats why it feels a little easier, this time, who knows. Good luck to everyone on beating this beastie!!
Helen
July 8, 2018 at 7:16 amHi all bern smoking 35 yrs today tyynmsny times f***k love it tonight 3 days night wish me luck
vivian hanson
July 4, 2018 at 1:10 pmAm 81. on day 11.I just keep thinking positively….I can breathe better,,I’m not looked down at..I’m not considered a 10th rate citizen anymore..I like to think of myself as a healthy little kid jumping rope without a cigarette hanging out of my mouth…My cough has virtually stopped. I don’t smell yucky..My “best friend” enjoyed watching me slowly die. I AM FREE!
Diana
July 13, 2018 at 1:12 amWay to go Vivian! I have been trying to quit for the last week and I keep caving by day 2. I am not giving up though – your courage in this battle gives me strength! I wish you all the best, keep up the great work!
Kim
July 3, 2018 at 2:15 pmHi all well I am 8 days smoke free….I am using the Nicorette patch and sometimes I feel like I am cheating. Does anyone else feel this way whey using the patch.
Julia
July 3, 2018 at 9:56 amDay 3 of stopping smoking feel okay…ish. Today definitely the hardest day, going back to work and surrounded by smokers. Using vape very heavily so I can still socialise with co-workers so I’m not losing the nicotine addiction, yet. I want to get over losing the smell and sensation of smoking first and then cut back on the nicotine in my vape. 24 years old and smoking since I was 13/14. Ahhhh I can do this!
JJ
June 30, 2018 at 6:28 amDay 8 for me no smoking or drinking. It was getting out of control. Was drinking about 10 beers nightly and smoking about 3/4 pack when drinking.
Hurt my back upstairs in my house so wasn’t able to do anything but lay in bed.
I have not had many cravings or any withdrawals.
My days and nights got a little mixed up but I think that was more due to my back than stopping smoking or having some beer..
I feel good other than my back. It’s starting to get a bit better so I think I may get out of the house today. Have no plans to smoke or drink anymore.
Have smoked for about 18 years but only when I would drink. The drinking wasn’t every day until the last couple of years. Hoping really bad that I can continue my progress because I want to get healthier, lose a bit of weight and feel more motivated!!!
Congratulations to all of you who have quit any bad habit or addiction.
Shura
June 25, 2018 at 10:39 amDay 3. The cravings started but I am sick of being a smoker and having my life ruled by a pack of cigarettes. Smoker for 9 years. I can do this, I believe.
Patty Golden
June 22, 2018 at 9:51 pmI have been smoking since I was 15-years-old. I am now 58. I have never smoked in my car, and I am a teacher so I have to go without until I get home from school. I knew if I could go all day without one, I could quit, but this is sooooooooooooo hard. I love to smoke while talking on the phone. I love a ciggy after a meal, and I love to smoke first thing in the morning. I keep thinking that I just can’t imagine enjoying anything without being able to smoke a cigarette. I had my last cigarette on Monday morning, so it’s been almost five days, and I really want one. I just purchased a carton on Sunday, so I have 9+ packs in my cupboard but have been able to stick with it. This is how crazy my habit is: I am already thinking about cancelling my annual December camping trip because I can’t imagine sitting around a campfire at night and not being able to smoke 🙁
Josh
June 22, 2018 at 1:09 pmJogging helps a ton. If you’re able to jog do it every time you have a craving. It takes it right away. I woke up at 4am this morning having cold sweats and nightmares. But I went out and I jogged. It helps exponentially
Tyler
June 21, 2018 at 1:11 pmIt’s funny this article assumes that vapes wont help you quit. The reason I came across this article is because I found it was incredibly easy to quit smoking with a vape pen if you have the slightest bit of self discipline. I quit after a week of vaping 3mg and after that switched to 0mg. I had little to know withdrawals except for maybe one day and now I’m completely done vaping and smoking cigarettes. I smoked for 8 years! This article sucks. I fully condone vaping as an alternative if you really want to quit!
Kerry hodge
June 20, 2018 at 10:44 pmMy 20rh day still getting cravings
Taki
June 18, 2018 at 3:13 pmI´m 31, smoking for 17 years, quit a month ago and was easier because i was in Indonesia for a while and the cigarettes there have only 1% nicotine and the rest is gudron lol, not very healthy, but the craving were less and 1 month passed easier. I gained some weight, guess the cravings, however if you drink enough water that should stop the cravings…
Went back to Europe and on a night out smoked another one, worst decision. Now i m on my second day , soon 3rd day of cold turkey and its harder than the first one. i read some of the replies here and there are a lot of situations which are true, like doing outside activities could help and less of mental activities as it stress you and gives you the craving. i know that a lot of people work at the computer and you will need a lot of willpower, but think that this is for your own good for health, skin, mental and you will be free, this is a drug literally, nicotine is like heroine or any other drug , not good at all and i do believe that it stress us more than it reliefs us and it just gives us the impression that we are cooler when in the end we are just weaker and accept this dependency.
Lets win this all !
Jannan
June 15, 2018 at 9:42 pmI’ve smoked for 40 years. I’m on Day 6. I’m using Chantix and it hasn’t been too bad. I just miss the action of smoking. It’s not a coincidence that I’m also on Day 6 of no alcohol! I think that could be my downfall. Unfortunately, my husband has not quit. So far, I find the smell of his smoke disgusting, but Chantix makes me a little nauseas. I’m sure this will change.
Tami
June 14, 2018 at 9:33 pmI’m 52 and have smoked most of my life. I’ve cut a pack a day habit down to 3 to 5 cigs a day. Im now on day 4 smoke free. I refuse to use a patch or vape. Why trade one bad habit for another? I find drinking a lot of water helps. I wear a rubber band on my wrist, when I get a craving I snap it! Ouch! Wish me luck!
Peggy
June 14, 2018 at 10:16 amDay 22 here, using combination therapy (patch + gum) after smoking for 25 years. So far so good, just some mild irritability, but I’ve got it figured out that even if I smoke I’ll still be irritable – more irritable because I smoked. I’m also vaping 0mg juice, which is actually quite nice.
About to head off on vacation which is going to be one massive trigger on its own – I typically smoke a pack on the drive and then when at the cottage I’ve got my beer/book/smoke combination to unwind. Planning to load up a cooler with snacks and stuff for the drive and make myself pull over at a rest stop for more than just a bathroom break, plus have my vape next to me the whole time. At the cottage I’m just going to have to tough it out.
One other thing I’ve done is every week I make myself buy something ridiculous for $20 as a reward. It can’t be something I desperately want, but just something foolish to commemorate a week not smoked. First week was one of those Funko Pop figurines. Second week was a mouse pad with a funny picture on it. This week was a vinyl LP from a movie I loved when I was a kid. It’s a silly little thing but it’s more motivation than anything else I’ve tried lol. Next week I’ll have to scour a tourist trap for some kitschy souvenir I’d never touch otherwise.
paul simpson
June 14, 2018 at 9:57 ami have smoked best part of 40 years i have copd after having a bad flare flare up with it made my mind up to quit on day 5 now of using patches found it easy this time round for some reason today i feel worse than ever before still no cigs can only hope it gets better
Tianz
June 13, 2018 at 2:04 amI am on my 23rd day tomorrow, and to be honest, it was not easy to reach this long without thinking that 1 cigarette can’t hurt. I’m trying to distract myself with a new found hobby hoping that I would be able to reach 1 month smoke free.
Naqash
June 10, 2018 at 5:44 pmI quit smoking from the last three days feeling so much need now helo me pls
Latifah Solomon
June 10, 2018 at 12:22 pmDay 1 my mom and I are trying this quitting thing together. Wish us luck. Lots of prayer for strength!!
Sadha Anand
June 10, 2018 at 6:25 amI’m on the 3rd day of non smoking.Smoked for 10 years about a pack/day. Feeling different for the first time since stopped. Having more stamina when I exercise. Wish success for all and always remember if you light up the ciggy again it woudnt be your last.
Have fun.
hamad
June 9, 2018 at 1:23 pmi am quitting smoking after 10 years of chain smoking.it is my 2nd day and also second time of quitting .i had already quit once using nicotine gum it helped me a lot but i could not keep my quitting far more than 9 months.I started to smoke again…This time i am serious about quitting forever.During 2nd day i am feeling restlessness and willing to smoke the cigarette again.My mind is saying this is the best thing in the world why u r leaving?I am fighting with my mind and heart for not burning another cigarette. I think i would go through this what i just have to do is to spend at least four days of pain and then it would be easy.
Danielle Robinson
June 8, 2018 at 7:46 pmI’m 23, been a 2packs a day smoker for 7 years. I had 2 teeth pulled yesterday and have stitches in my mouth. I was the bad one who when I had a tooth pulled I’d gauze it up and smoke still. Never had stitches in my mouth they hurt so bad (oh I went in originally because my face was swollen obviously serverly infected) they pulled 2 teeth. And gave me antibiotics. No pain meds. So I haven’t smoked a single cig in 28 hours. My head hurts I got the shakes. My pain is making me want a cig. My man is still smoking I told him to keep it away from me. He says I’m over reacting. The smell just triggers me to want to smoke one. Oh another fun thing is I’m sick have a bad cough before they pulled my severely infected tooth. So swollen face and sick. I’m not managing well. I’ve been nothing but tears and anger all day. Idk if I can muster on. I’ve lost all my grandparents to copd and 1 to lung cancer from smoking. My mom still smokes a pack a day. I don’t want to not be able to breathe right ya know. I just am struggling with the fight. I feel like everyone is against me. I’m also a 2 2liters of mtn dew drinker for 13 years. So I haven’t had my pop since Tuesday ( had to fast for a physical) so that’s another rough thing I’m struggling with. I have a 4 year old son I keep telling myself I want to be healthy and be able to be active with my boy to get me through this day. It’s so hard tho
Sunshine
June 8, 2018 at 7:02 pmDay 5 I’m 50 yrs old quit a few yrs ago for 3 yrs started back up Nov 2015 been smoking every since, but been thinking a lot about my health now that I’m 50 and have 2 grandsons that I want to be around for plus the 8.00 a pack is killing me but mentally I’m ready to stop, I have and hopefully I’m done for good.
Dannielle
June 5, 2018 at 10:42 amFourth day smoke free and can hardly keep my eyes open. I’ve been sleeping great but still wake up tired. I hope this gets better.
M. Kalla
June 2, 2018 at 9:12 pm61 years of smoking. This is my 4th day of quitting cold turkey…..I live in kentucky, and I can smell someone smoking in New York . Often I hear grapes and cheese calling me from the frig. …I am thankful to the creator for his care and your support?
Janice wollschlager
June 20, 2018 at 12:51 amI am only on day three feel ok because lm on patches.lm thinking of not wearing patches on day five try to go cold turkey do you think it is a bad idea.i have bad breathing problems due to smoking
Anu
June 1, 2018 at 2:38 amDay 18 and its killing me, Everybody is irritating me and getting on my last nerve, All I want is My Marlboro Menthol… Lord only you can help me
Jerri
May 30, 2018 at 7:11 pmI am on day three, smoke free. I have decided to quit cold turkey!! Lordy these cravings have me by the throat tonight ?
Anne Mclean
May 30, 2018 at 10:24 amNow on day 16 of not smoking. I smoked for 40 years a packet a day and have tried a number of times to give up. I am using a Vype pen with 0 nicotine and I am finding that this really helps as, I think it was the action of smoking more than the actual smoking that I liked. There are some ciggys that I do really miss like after dinner. I used my Vype pen quite a lot to start with but now, hardly use it at all. My flatmate also smokes but she has been going outside when she wants one so that has also really helped. I have even had a few social occasions and to be honest, it really hasn’t bothered me not smoking. There has been the odd time when I thought, I could murder a ciggy but I have just used my vype and done something else that the feeling passed. I just keep thinking about the money I am saving.
Good luck everyone.
Archangel
May 29, 2018 at 1:27 pmI don’t pray much, but I’m certainly praying for each and every one of you. I don’t care much; however, I care about each and every one of you for trying to the best of your abilities to improve your life, and help ensure that you stay here for as long as possible for those you love. Each and every one of you is a HERO. God bless you all, and stay strong!!
Albert
May 26, 2018 at 5:46 pmDay 4.this sucks. But I am kicking ass without a cig?????????
Ruth
May 25, 2018 at 9:12 pmI’ve only been smoking for 7 mos.I’m quiting cold turkey.
Albert
May 25, 2018 at 8:02 pmDay 3 for me. Still getting the dizzy feeling. Is that normal?? It comes and goes. Been smoking for 41yrs.
Mitch
May 24, 2018 at 2:24 pmPiece of cake this stop smoking thing smoked around 30 a day for the last 17 years been cold turkey for the last 4 days and had two bad cravings and that’s it, bin to the pub twice in them 4 days, just worried about getting fat now
Charms
May 26, 2018 at 5:23 amI was very kind to myself by cutting down to 1 a day but then I started looking forward to that one so much that I had to make another change, I just finished what I had and didn’t buy again so I’m free now for 3 months. I still get cravings but don’t act on it and never will. Watch out 4 days not enough to say it’s a piece of cake but good luck to you. Been a smoker for 30 years!
joseph campo
May 24, 2018 at 11:27 amOn day 4 , My only change is I still do have cravings, and my energy level is down, but I am going to make it. My wife is beyond supportive.
Keyla
May 24, 2018 at 9:14 amBeen smoking 14 years. Going on a mini vacation with my oldest son in a month and he told me he really wished I would quit smoking so I don’t waste time having to take smoke breaks on our vacation. He’s been at me to quit for the last five years… decided now is the time. I’m on hour 41… usually smoke 3/4 pack a day… going at this cold turkey. Husband still smokes and refuses to quit so it is making it harder for me. Also decided to attempt to kick my Diet Coke habit at the same time, I usually drink 6 cans or so a day, so it’s been a rough two days for me. We just bought a new house so I sat down and figured out how much money we would save with me not smoking or drinking pop… It’s around $150 a month… and that will take care of two of our utility bills a month… so I just keep telling myself… happier sons, more money, happier sons, more money…
It’s so hard though!!!
Charms
May 26, 2018 at 5:34 amI feel for you Keyla. I kicked the habit about 3 months ago but I was kind to myself in the beginning. I brought it down to 1 at the same time in the evening. But then I was really looking forward to the evening to have a smoke that I got scared that it wouldn’t work. But low and behold that one cigaret started having a different taste and I finished what I had and never bought again. I promise you after 3 months I still get cravings but just don’t act on it. So good luck to you! I went on a detox soup diet that also got rid of some toxins, I guess. Just giving a helping hand because I know how hard it is. I really enjoyed my cigarette but I knew it was bad for me seeing I’m hypertensive!
Cyndie
May 27, 2018 at 1:51 pmJust hit 24 hours without a smoke. I’m 53 and smoked for 35 years. This is tough I’m so nauseous and a little dizzy. Lots of cravings but dang my house is getting spotless! My brain says this is worth it my life will be better I’ll be able to breathe again but my heart is looking for my “friend”. I know I’m barely getting the worst of it I’m so afraid i won’t be strong enough to deal with it getting worse. Trying to keep my mind on getting thru this minute
Pittsburgh
May 23, 2018 at 11:10 amI’m on day 3 it’s hard quit before for 2 years was stupid to start again if you guys do it never let your guard down that urge to smoke will always be there not as bad but it’s there I’m 53 smokeing since 21
Yvonne
May 23, 2018 at 10:01 amI quit and it’s my day 3 today am doing great and chewing loads of gum and drinking water I feel stronger and healthier too
rob
May 22, 2018 at 7:31 pmSo many times I have quit for years at a time, then something highly stressful happens and you bum a ciggie from some one. The dam breaks wide open. The process starts again.
It is definitely a mental game after day 3, but its amazing that circulation severely improves, smell is starting to return, taste is also making a return, you can smell coffee grounds from 15 feet away, you will be able to smell a ciggie from half a block away. By this point, it better disgust you.
ZERO TOLERANCE is the only answer, and also the key.
If you smoke when you drink, I suggest you quit drinking for a while at the same time as it is a trigger.
I have tried a few sleep hypno’s on youtube and find they quite work, if you are ready.
Everybody that is reading the comments are here because they want to quit smoking, I hope everyone does!
I am using a steam room to help rid my body of the nicotine faster with good long sweats.
Tootsie
May 22, 2018 at 6:46 pmIt gets rough but you have to have you mind set. I stop cold turkey had withdrawals but managed by eating snacks. I’m so over smoking found one today I had dropped on night stand but flushed it in toilet
Angela Ocampo
May 22, 2018 at 3:38 pmI have made it 1 month of no smoking. Quit cold turkey. I smoked 32 years about a pack and a half a day. Only problem is I eat sooo much and want to sleep a lot more. Keep strong guys. We can do this
Amy Marie
May 22, 2018 at 8:47 amThere is a really good book called The Smokefree Way. It really dives in to the MENTAL part of the smoking addiction (like those who feel like they’ve lost a “best friend”). Basically when you start going through nicotine withdrawals between cigarettes, a cigarette will make you feel better and is “comforting”. You eventually transpose that to other parts of your life, like when you start feeling sad, lonely, Etc, eventually subconsciously relating smoking to making you feel comforted. Great and insightful read. Good luck all
muddy
May 21, 2018 at 1:26 pmIve been smoking since i was 16 or 17 i think and ive just turned 60, lost my dad 23 days ago, after i went cold turkey and havnt smoked since, i never got any cravings for first two weeks, but the craving i have had since are no problem, This time ive found it really easy, almost like my father is helping me , Good luck to anyone who stops, If i can do it anyone can
daniel
May 20, 2018 at 1:53 pm32 days, very easy when you thinking like every cigarette is gun pointed at your head…..I think another puff will kill me so Im done…been smoking 17 years and 12 years pack a day
Katy McFarland
May 20, 2018 at 1:18 pmI have smoked for 30 years and finally said I don’t want to smoke anymore!!! At the end, me taking a few drags and it made me sick!!! I’m on day 3. I feel run down, tired, just blah! I hope the nicotine goes away soon!!! I really want to be smoke FREE! GREAT Article!!!
Chad
May 20, 2018 at 3:03 amI’m on day 5 what has been helping me the most is looking up images on Google of smoke related diseases .
I keep reminding myself how I feel like crap after finishing a cigarette .
I have been smoking for 15 years
Wish me luck !
Mike clarke
May 19, 2018 at 2:59 pmSmoked 2 packs a day for 35 years, this is day 4 cold turkey. The walls are starting to look like swiss cheese from punching holes in them, must add polly filler to my “things to pick up” list. Losing my mind, climbing the walls i have been dropped into Hell!!!.
Donna
May 17, 2018 at 3:12 pmBest of luck to all on their journeys to give up this nasty habit. I started smoking at age 14 and quit 3 times; twice while I was pregnant and the 3rd time when I was 35. I started just before my 7 years was up of being smoke free….HUGE MISTAKE! At times in my earlier years of smoking, I smoked perhaps close to a pack a day then a half of pack. In the last 15 years or so, I smoked 5 to 7 a day. So here I am at the age of 61 and quit 6 days ago. I told myself, that is it…my mothers day gift to me is to kick this habit already. COLD Turkey! Food is tasting better, cravings off and on but so far I am fighting it! Going out with friends tomorrow night and only 1 smokes, so this will be a test. WISH me Luck and GOOD LUCK to all. D
Anne Mclean
May 17, 2018 at 10:01 amSo…. after smoking for 41 years (a packet at day and sometimes more) and having tried to quit several times using various methods. I stopped on Monday, so am now on day 4. Decided that I would use my Vape Pen with 0 nicotine liquid. So far, it is working like a dream and really helping me, I found one of my biggest problems was the habitual cigs. Also, I used it as an excuse to get away from my computer for 5 minutes. So when I get the craving, I still pop outside but have a couple of puffs on my vape. I think psychologically, it is really helping me as although there is no nicotine in my vape it is still giving me that satisfaction kick. I even met some friends in the pub last night and when the urge got to me, I popped outside and had the vape again. I’ve not had a full day at home yet so not sure how I will handle that but hopefully I can keep on using the vape.
Good luck to everyone on this journey.
Priscilla Underwood
May 16, 2018 at 8:42 amGood morning been smoking since I was 18 and I’m now 53 today makes day number eight and I’m bout to lose my mind but I’m not turning back
Nku
May 15, 2018 at 1:09 amAge 50 years I have smoked since my high school years I really want to stop smoking this is my 2nd day not smoking problem is my husband smokes then I miss to smoke, I had previously tried to quite but failed within weeks please help I have prayed cried to ask the Lord to assist me. I really want to quite, I see the nicotine results in my body the damage to my skin my hands and feet. I hate it so much.
Sho Smithson
May 15, 2018 at 12:43 amDay 10 Since quitting for me. Smoked since I was 19 for 9 years.
My friends reccommended the patch and e-cigarettes, but knowing myself i knew I had to go Cold Turkey to quit so I did.
Day 2, 3, 5 were the hardest, but it has gotten considerably easier after the 1 week mark. Like everyone is saying its more a mental craving after 3 days then a physical one.
What helped for me when the cravings came on strong, was doing Pushups and Situps even at work. Forcing your body to do something hard, so your mind wont think about ciggies. Also I read I should embrace my triggers so have been Drinking Coffee in the morning, and alcohol at night so I get used to having those routines without Nictoine. Hope to get to the 2 weeks mark!
muddy
May 21, 2018 at 1:31 pmSo you are a non smoking caffeine addicted alcoholic ?
muddy
May 21, 2018 at 1:33 pmOnly joking, Seriously good luck mate
Patrick Hogan
May 14, 2018 at 9:48 pmI’m on day 16 no smoking, day 9 no nicotine.
Listening to non-smoking subliminals at night while I sleep has helped me. Find a 9 hour one on you tube, mine has crickets, and play it all night. Start several days before quitting and by day 4-5, you won’t want to smoke. I used the nicotine tabs in the beginning for 7 days then stopped completely. The second week of no nicotine is rough. I’m a straight up bastard. However, in no way shape or form do I want to smoke. Just very edgy.
I did the subliminals a few years back I stopped completely for 30 days. This time I will listen every night for 60 + days. Last time I only did 15 days.
I’ve smoked for 23 years but the last 3 years have been on and off, only smoking at home and at night.
The subliminals work. They’re free on you tube and help the mental side.
I didn’t want to take the tabs either because they’re loaded with aspartame which is just as bad as smoking.
Good luck everyone!
George
May 14, 2018 at 9:28 amUse Champix guys , it’s the only way to do it , hassle free with 5% willpower , I’m on day 10 and going strong, I will stop Champix after 3
months once my mind stop thinking about it
Ed
May 12, 2018 at 1:05 pmI’m on day 5 of quit smoking cold turkey. Day 2,3 was really bad with cravings. Sunflower seeds and wint o green life savers have been helpful
Jack
May 11, 2018 at 4:33 pm1st day, pretty hard 20 yrs of wrong habit. Will I loose, may be, but i will quit one day.
Elle
May 11, 2018 at 2:33 pmI am 29 years old.. I have been chain smoking since I was 16.. I’m on day 10 and I can honestly say it feels like it’s getting harder.. I have no idea what to do with myself.. I am depressed and don’t want to be around anybody or leave the house.. everything is a trigger.. I think what makes it hard for me is that I didn’t want to quit at all.. I enjoy everything about smoking.. it’s how I cope.. it’s always something to do.. it was dessert after a meal.. it was literally a reason to get out of bed.. I hate not smoking.. I only quit because I didn’t want to be 30 and still chain smoking.. I only stick to it because I am 7 miles from the nearest gas station with no vehicle.. it’s really rough.
Sharona
May 9, 2018 at 8:46 pmDay 10 without a real cigarette, day 2 without a vape. You all are right it is very hard but with God’s guidance we can all do it! I feel better every day that I don’t have a cigarette!!
Eraaz
May 8, 2018 at 7:49 pmI’ve been smoking for over 8 years and now I’m 28. It’s been 3 long days without a cigarette. Have tried several times to quit before. This time I want to stay strong and positive. I think it’s right time to quit before it’s too much and too late.
Varun
May 24, 2018 at 1:29 amExactly, Iam 27, 9 years smoking, trued to quit numerous times before, best I got to was 6-7 days. 3rd day today, let’s see.
Smokintolong
May 8, 2018 at 3:32 pmSmoked for 15 years. Quit cold turkey for oral surgery. Its been four days. So far the fear of complications have out weighed my cravings. Hopefully I can keep going this time.
Malissa
May 7, 2018 at 5:31 pmSmoked on and off for 22 years. A week ago woke up and decided im done! Quitting cold turkey.
Feeling pretty good. Glad I did this..
Kelly
June 16, 2018 at 2:03 amAre you still smoke free? I am on day 9 and hoping it stays this easy.
Brandan
May 7, 2018 at 5:25 pmDay 3 and I am dying! I’m not gonna give in because day 2 was way worse then today is. Don’t want to have to start all over again.
Lyn
May 7, 2018 at 3:40 pm3 days in Cold turkey, been smoking off and in for 30 years. Just want to sleep, don’t want to do anything, have no motivation. Pulling threw though, mind over matter
Kathy
May 7, 2018 at 3:35 pmI am on day 5 cold turkey. I have smoked for 20 years. This is the 3rd time I have quit in my lifetime. Twice while pregnant and the last time due to health reasons. I was cig free for 2 years before I picked up again (bad decision). I have always quit because I HAD to for one reason or another, never because I truly wanted to. This time I am doing it because I want to so it seems a bit easier to fight my own mind games. To play along I actually keep a pack of cigs on me at all times. I know strange, but I find it easier to fight my will power than my craving. What I mean by that is, when I don’t have any cigs around I crave them 10x more because I am saying I CAN’T have them, But when I have them on me it’s a matter of NOT wanting them or NOT giving in to them. Its all a head game but it just makes it easier for me. I wish you all the best of luck with walking away from this horrible habit.
Noelle Starr
May 4, 2018 at 11:41 amIt is my 4th day… 48 years for me; as I read these stories, I cant believe it’s been a breeze for me. My body just seems to be rejecting the nicotine… Not complaining… Just curious to know why??
Joe Byrd
May 3, 2018 at 9:29 pmDay 1. Easiest day. And tomorrow morning will be the challenge. Getting up, going to work, without first having my smoke. Not smoking in the truck, not smoking on the job, not smoking with my beer… this is not my first rodeo. I think I’ve failed about 7 times. Quit last August, and made it to November, before failing. But I’m not going to stop trying. I hope this time will be it. I feel terrible.
Rodney Attkisson
May 3, 2018 at 1:44 amYou can do it
Frank
May 2, 2018 at 7:20 pmDay six for me. Have been 8-10 cigs a day for the last eight months due to a divorce. Single parent now and I am with someone new, and she is a closet smoker like me and we have so much fun sitting outside smoking and drinking.
it’s everything our lousy ex spouses told us not to do, so there is a big psychological component to it. I have a stressful job and last night I almost caved, but my little girl said no. I’m only doing this for her. I really don’t feel any different being off them (except now I constantly think about smoking) but will give it another week. Sorry if this isn’t the type of message you all wanted to hear!
karen corless
May 2, 2018 at 11:01 amI am coming up to 59yrs old on 15th may. I am on my 3rd day and my 3rd attempt to give up this time i will do it, i was wheezing so bad i knew what i had to do no going back this time it really scared me. I want to live. Good luck guys positive mental attitudes will get us through this.
Alicia
May 1, 2018 at 11:07 pmIm trying to quit again! This is my 3rd attempt and will be my last… im stuck in thinking I can not be happy or have fun without cigarettes.. but there are soo many ppl out there that dont smoke and enjoy life.. im proud to say I will be one of them… Day 9 is almost complete!! Keep pushing all. We got this. You’re stories keep me motivated!
Nick
May 1, 2018 at 3:29 amHad my 4 wisdom teeth pulled on thurs decided this was my chance to quit after 17 yrs, went cold turkey haven’t had one yet on day five now, cravings are getting less but I think I’m gonna make it!!
Shubham
May 1, 2018 at 3:03 amDay 4
I’m going well.. had a lot of craving in day 2
Started 7 years ago.
I don’t know how rest of the days will go when I will be with smokers at work and at home.
Robin
April 30, 2018 at 3:30 pmStarted Chantix on April 12th and smoked 3-4 cigs a day until the 26th and stopped completely. This is my 5th day of no smoking and actually it hasn’t been that bad. I have a urge to smoke because of the habit, but not any bad cravings. I have tried quitting before, with no luck. Chantix has been a life saver for me! I’m 57 yrs old and I have smoked for 40 yrs. I was up to smoking a pack and a half to two packs a day. If you fail, don’t give up, give Chantix a try.
Martha
April 30, 2018 at 1:07 amI have smoked for 40 year. I am at day 19 being smoke free. I still have cravings but I am determined to beat this. Staying really busy and joined the gym to help with weight gain which I know will happen because I am constantly eating. I am doing this cold turkey!
Paula Green
April 27, 2018 at 2:55 amI have a major surgery coming up and i have to be smoke free. Im ok at home not smoking at home. I’m ok with that. But when i go to work very stressful. And im weak minded. I have gone from 2 packs a day to 6 cigarettes in a week. I just need to say and think no. I no i can do this. Its so hard !!
Alicia
May 1, 2018 at 11:09 pmYou can do this… habits that need to be broken… try chewing cinnamon gum at work when you feel the urge, also tons of water! You got this!
abdul aziz
April 27, 2018 at 2:00 amit is my 6th day. i have been smoking for 25 years and now i know time has come to quit. Friends …. Tip for all of you …3 deep breath will ease the tension… Meditation has helped me a lot in staying calm .
B. L.
April 24, 2018 at 4:23 amHi”
It’s been 8 days I’ve quit smoking. It’s hard. Today I wanted a cigarette so bad. But I say no don’t do it. I ask Lord hav all of us strength to win this addition. Amen
Steve Windedahl
April 17, 2018 at 8:54 pmDay 2, again. I’ve quit cold turkey several times and start again when I drink. Goes hand in hand for me so I gotta also quit drinking this time. Day 2 and 3 are most cravings for me with nothing to do, out of work no hobbies, bad day
Louise
April 17, 2018 at 10:25 amI am on day 2 🙂 felling ok so far, but getting slightly more anxious. I am on the patches and have an emergency inhaler too. Good luck everyone, we can do this 🙂
Soul
April 15, 2018 at 12:40 pmHi, I am 5 days from quitting, I am using 7 nicotine gums a day and i am cutting on it every 4 days, Now for 5th day its 6 gums hope this method works, I tried different methods though but always end up with smoking. And my symptoms are bit different, I had problem with sleeping but now I fall asleep very soon, and my anxiety and anger has increased, feeling like I am lazy cannot concentrate on anything, I am very much irritated, empty and depressed hope everything will pass away soon // Main thing is my mind if trying to find many reasons so that I can start smoking again//
Sherri Lynne Newman
April 12, 2018 at 1:39 pmI have smoked for about 42 years, just got a lung cancer scare, so I quit. I am now 12 days tobacco free, been using patch, chantix,and vaping some. It’s been going pretty good but it’s been like the last 2 days is been a little rough.
Steve-o
April 12, 2018 at 10:44 amI smoked since I was 14 and I’m almost 24 now. I have bad breathing and for the last 4 years I been smoking about 2 packs a day which is terrible for a man my age but I quit smoking Monday night and today is Thursday lol so it’s been about 3 days without a cigarette and i can say it’s hard and it’s a brain tester. Hopefully another month from now my mind will stop trying to play tricks on me.
Jeremiah McEwan
April 12, 2018 at 3:29 amI’ve smoked for 20 years. Been vaping and smoking for a month. I quit cigarettes 2 days ago. I thought vaping would eliminate all the cravings but it makes them just barely tolerable. Almost slipped a few times today, but I AM GOING TO BEAT THIS!!!!
Barbara
April 11, 2018 at 7:23 pmDay 10 feels like day 4 with the intense feel of the all day cravings. So far I’m staying strong but finding today to be the hardest to not relapse. I have checked this page several times since day three for the encouragement and so far it has worked so thank you all for the words to each other it really helps all of us that are in this fight together. I’ll make it another day and all I can do is take tomorrow hour by hour in hopes I can be as strong as I am today. So to all of you fighting this battle stay strong,we are not alone in this.
Leul
April 11, 2018 at 4:26 pm14th day smoke/cigarette/poison FREE?? didn’t use anything I just prayed to the Lord and he set me free! He will set u free too in the mighty name of Jesus Amen!!!
Jake
April 11, 2018 at 8:43 amI’m on my day 4 right now, I’ve been smoking for 6 years. I quit cold turkey and I’m not using patches, gum or vapes. That’s basically cheating. We’re trying to quit the nicotine guys, not the smoking itself. We’re addicted to nicotine. Keep that in mind. So, using nicotine patches still keeps you addicted to it.
xnicotineaddict
April 11, 2018 at 3:15 amI m 49 and smoked heavily for probably half those years. Finally went cold turkey 4 days ago and really owe it to chantix, I take a pill when I feel the craving is too much and that helps me fight the urge. it has been really helpful in breaking the 20+ yr old habit so far .fyi no bad dreams but on the contrary really good vivid dreams however one side affect is nausea and feel thirsty all the time.
Tammy
April 10, 2018 at 3:06 pmDay 5 cold turkey … it’s rough… and my anxiety is pretty up there … I’m not giving up … I’m going walking… and walking lol
Scott
April 9, 2018 at 7:37 amI just broke and smoked 3 cigars back to back. I never smoked one before but I’ve been with my grandfather and its the only tobacco around… Start again tomorrow on the patches and gum. One cigarette a day is still quitting really
Claudia
April 4, 2018 at 5:12 amI’m on day 11. I’ve done this before but for some crazy reason started back 11 years ago.
I just try to stay busy but I have eaten more this last week. I’m do hope that trend does not continue. I don’t think about it as much now and if I do I take all the great advice I have read to just focus and let it pass.
I have been cranky and it’s hard training the mind. That’s the worst. I did have tummy pains which I’m sure we’re constipation that first week. What a joy these side effects have been.
Just praying I don’t keep wanting to eat. I’m trying to loose weight also so not good for me to eat more but I’m pushing thru it.
Oh and it was cold turkey.
Jill
March 30, 2018 at 6:04 pmHi all, It’s been 4 days now with no ciggs. I am using the patch. so far so good. I have it on 24/7. I put a clean one on daily. The difference this time is, I am getting on my knees in the morning and asking God to help me stay away from one cigarette for one day and to please remove the obsession. Then at the end of the day when successful, I am thanking God. It’s working. I can’t smoke anymore, these things are making me very sick. Good luck everyone… We can do this. We can’t let this thing control our lives anymore
Jill
March 30, 2018 at 6:15 pmJill again, I forgot to mention that I have been smoking for 40 years.
Dori
March 30, 2018 at 3:35 amDay 16!! I feel confident in saying that I’m now a non smoker! Day 3,4,14,15,16 hardest! Day 3 & 4 was due to nicotine withdrawal; but I feel like day 14, 15 and 16 are mental battles caused by being out of wack with old habits. Either way, it is easier to work through symptoms when you know that they’ll soon pass. I have gained a few pounds, but I’ll work to get it off. Don’t give up guys! We can do this!
Biily
April 1, 2018 at 11:45 pmI’m on my 4th day been hardest day so far feel like given in
Latoyia
March 28, 2018 at 10:38 amVery proud of everyone here. It’s not easy at all but we all have been chosen to be healthier. No one can be gods warriors if we are not healthy. Praying for us all. Stay focused everyone. #3daysin
Kim
March 27, 2018 at 7:57 pmI have been smoke free since 3/1/18, I got the flu and could not smoke at all due to coughing my head off! By the time I thought about a cig, it was 5 days since my last one so I just took the opportunity to quit for good. I figured the first days are the hardest and I got through those while distracted with the flu so I’m just going to keep going. As said above, I feel like I’ve lost a good friend. I LOVED smoking and had been a smoker for 30 years. But……..I’m a 48 year old, overweight diabetic so I HAD to quit or it was going to kill me sooner rather than later. Anyway, I’m done with cigarettes for good. I still miss them, but I don’t dare take a puff or I will be right back where I was. I wish everyone on here good luck and success. You can do it! You are stronger than your addiction!
Ken
March 24, 2018 at 6:10 pmI quit at lunch time March 19 . 39 years of smoking. Not easy but it feels so much better to be able to breath deeply without hacking.
Anybody out there who quit the same day to be my comrade in leaving this stinking habit in the dust?
Tom
March 22, 2018 at 11:48 pmI’m on day 6!!!! No patches, no vaping, no nothing. Using these TBX free strips. No nicotine in those, Thats what we need to beat!! The nicotine addiction!!! Made from a plant root that makes you think you just smoked a cigarette within 30 seconds of taking on tounge. Still felt like beating the crap out of someone who pisses me off but doing ok.
dan
March 22, 2018 at 8:02 pmI’m on day two and everything seems surreal, like I am in a twilight zone. Went to get gas today and saw my brand of cigs staring at me. Took all I had to walk out and not buy a pack. I did but gum instead. On way back to office I felt really proud that i resisted, but also scared about how close I came to buying them. I feel like if I was cooped up somewhere (adult grounding) I could get through this. I am praying God will help see me see the way. Just keep thinking, if you take a cigarette, it will satisfy you for a minute, but you will also suffer the disappointment of letting yourself down. I’ve been there before. Winning the easy battle now by smoking, is not worth losing your war against smoking.
Wayne
March 22, 2018 at 1:41 pmHey am 33hrs smoke free going cold turkey after 12 yrs of smoking , havent gottten any cravings so far, hope it goes well
samad khan
March 21, 2018 at 11:54 amI have been smoking since 17 years, recently quit 4 days ago ,going a cold turkey not even using any nicotine patches , the 2nd day was hard as hell but its getting better day by day, i can breath, taste and smell better. Really want to quit this time so its more in the head than what we think. Everyone who reading this and trying to quit , Just dont let it over take you, believe me when u start craving it , that craving will change if you just wait for 10 min , simply look at the clock and make sure to wait for 10 min and see if the craving is there or not.
Pratik
March 20, 2018 at 5:43 amHi frnds I quit smoking 3 days back One short….. I had craving on 1st day….Preety bad… Got through that… On 2nd day I spent my day as usual… With my colleague who used to smoke with me except that day I watched him smoke near me n I did not smoke…. That was my Ultimate test….once u clear that I had feelings form inside I can do this….
Kenny
March 19, 2018 at 7:30 pmTryed patches, gum, champix all before with no joy. After looking around online I found a site called “tabex”, and havent had or even wanted a cig in over 2 weeks now. Used to smoke 20-25 per day and have been smoking 22 years. Good luck all
Kim
March 19, 2018 at 12:46 pmHello,
I’m 30 years old and I’ve smoked for half my life. Today is day number 1 without a puff. I’ve been trying to quit on and off for years, but I don’t think my previous attempts were taken all that seriously on my part. But with wanting to start a family within the next few years, I knew I had to kick the habit, as I’d hate to try to give up during pregnancy.
A few weeks ago I went to a village function, over 100 people attended, and I realised I was only 1 of 4 who were smokers. Enough is enough. I hate the thought of something so dangerous to your health, having so much control over you. To think, a little cigarette can do so much damage?
I’ve made a long list of the reasons why I’m quitting, drinking as much water as I can and doing insane amounts of exercise. I will let you all know how I progress. And I wish all the luck and strength to everyone else who had the courage to do this. I have a huge amount of respect for all of you.
Dori
March 19, 2018 at 7:07 amI’m on day five. Day three and four had me feeling like a crazy lunatic. At one point, I was in tears, then rage, then crazy woman rambling talk… this has me on an emotional roller coaster. Now to be fair, day three was the hardest so far; I even reached for my ghost pack of cigarettes and I used a few puffs from an e cig to get me through days one thru three. Day four, I felt like a zombie with an driving force, but not as madden as day three. No more e cig as of day for because I felt like I was prolonging the Inevitable withdraw from nicotine. I also kept busy with spring cleaning my yard. I can’t wait to be unchained from this habit. I am so happy to miserably suffering for a good cause!
Joey
March 18, 2018 at 1:54 amI’m a 35 year smoker – pack a day.
I quit less than 24 hours ago.
I’m ready to smoke RIGHT NOW!
These things are gonna kill me….
Sharon
March 17, 2018 at 10:09 amHi – im up to week 8 after 40 years of smoking on average a pack a day. In the past I’ve never managed more than 24 hours, even after operations and being stuck in hospital. Nothing could stop me. Not patches, gum, accupuncture, hypnotherapy or pills. I had a love hate relationship with smoking. I switched to vaping, so much cheaper, everyone tells me I smell nice, I no longer cough and sing in the car again. Still getting cravings and the odd dream of smoking, but will never go back to it now. What a difference! Good luck to you all and hang in there!
ava83
March 16, 2018 at 1:54 pmday 5 on vaping. I feel like saaad all the time. Cannot focus on anything, everybody annoys me. i have stopped for 2 years with cold turkey method and me silly mind needed one after 2 years without nicotine, how stupid i was….
i know that it is just our minds that keeps tricking us: losing the best friend, i was so much cooler when i smoked, will i ever enjoy afterlunch period and morning coffee etc. the image i have created in my mind is soooo strong: I am sitting in in Croatia in a nice bar, i hear the waves and I am drinking a nice glass of red wine, I am so happy. Beautiful, hah ? no one dreams about waking up in the middle of the night because of coughing and stinky hair and fingers.
hold on pals, 3 weeks and this is over.
kind regards,
ava
Charlie
March 14, 2018 at 1:42 pmIm 33yrs, been a smoker for 10yrs, doing max 1 pack a day. Gone 4 days smoke free so far. I have dodged my friends entirely as they are all smokers. Honestly it’s not that very hard since I understand why I’m doing it. I’m afraid though if I can hold it when the weekend comes!
Elly
March 13, 2018 at 8:15 pmhi, 32 years old, smoked for 15 years, went cold turkey for the 3. time, currently on my 40 days streak and iam never going back, my motivation is health, my sleep has gotten much better alongside with breathing and acid reflux, put on around 5 kg though which i cant wait to shed off.
I was smoking half a pack a day to 2 -3 packs every weekend, as i quit smoking i havent been drinking either, habits take time to break, keep your brain preoccupied, rewiring it takes time but its possible in any age. dont give up, good luck everyone.
Toyia b
March 11, 2018 at 8:53 pmI am 6 days in cold turkey and this by far is my worst day since i decided to quit im going to hang in there im 36 and have been smoking since i was 17 i have 3 kids and im not getting any younger so i decided might as well give it a shot. Its just the withdrawls that are getting me im feeling anxious and kind of depressed like all i need is that one puff but then i think of the porgress i have made so far please keep me in your prayers
Mr. sunshine
March 10, 2018 at 7:55 pmAddictions has destroyed my bright engineering career, my personal life and there is no reason left that I should quit for. Yet I will quit my addiction-112 hours and quit my life after that.
I want to die a guilt free death -freed of addictions
Mary
March 9, 2018 at 10:08 amAfter 21 years smoking, I had tried everything Champix ( made me ill) patches, sprays, lozengers everything.
I moved to a VAPE and then for the last 4 years have been addicted to vaping. That transition takes a week but your body has nicotine so you’re not getting withdrawals.
I’m on DAY 9 totally nicotine free, it’s hard, craving come hard and fast still,
I am determined never to take another drag/puff again……
Emily
March 9, 2018 at 9:11 amSmoke/nicotine free for 9 days now.. quit March 1st.
Was feeling ok, but today has been the hardest- I feel like I did when I was smoking- coughing lots, phlegm… not sure what’s happening but not happy about it!
REALLY trying to stay clean, I want to feel happier, healthier and save some money… but like people have said before, it’s like losing your best friend… (even though your best friend is trying to slowly kill you)
Mustn’t think… about… cigarette….
Bronx
March 8, 2018 at 1:14 am8 days without smoke without any aid bit going solo. My brain and body doesn’t help me quit. The only thing that inspires me to travel through this turbulence is physically seeing smoke as a man that came to kill me and iam verbally telling him no you can’t take my life. I’m fighting from outside my body to kill the inside. I feel it ha4d to quit smoking from inside
Marlianna
March 8, 2018 at 1:09 amIt’s been almost 24 hours! It hasn’t been to bad…yet. Been smoking for 7 years I have an four year old with so much energy. I want to be around to see him grow and have children. I’m not sure how hard or easy this journey will be but I’m ready. Dear God keep pushing me♥️
Ryan H
March 7, 2018 at 4:06 amHi. I am 36 hours smoke free in 30 seconds…….there it is. Anyway it’s not been as hard as I was anticipating. Don’t get me wrong it is not a walk in the park by any means. I take walks in the mornings, (coffee and cigarette time) on work breaks. Lots and lots of mints, and chewing on straws. Im going cold turkey I quit last Thursday March 1st quit for 30 hours and was a grouchy prick. However I fell off Friday afternoon and smoked a pack that weekend. Quit again on monday. I WAS a pack a day smoker for many years. Im 32 and have smoked since I was 15. In a few more years I will have been a nonsmoker for longer than a smoker agin…You can all do this we can all do this! I’m pulling for all of you chin up take it one minute, hour, day or wherever you are on your journey!
Melissa
March 25, 2018 at 11:09 pmHi Ryan,
Same! 31 years old and have been smoking since I was 14.. 15 on a regular basis. I was thinking the other day how I’ve been smoking for more than half of my life and it scares the hell out of me. Hope you’re doing well on this smoke-free journey.
Gina L
April 5, 2018 at 8:07 pmRyan- I am also 32 and have been smoking since age 15. I have tried to quit numerous tunes before. Today is day 4… never made it past this day smoke- free. I read Allen Carr’s book— really helped changed my perspective! But today I’m hanging on giving up at this point previously. Eek!!
Mayank
March 3, 2018 at 12:02 pmRead this article it seems the author is paid by tobacco companies i would suggest u folks just read allen carr’s “Easy way to stop smoking”truat me friwnds its not hard to quit if u juat change ur frame of mind just read the book for that once .
Emily
March 9, 2018 at 9:12 amThat’s what I used!
It helped me for the first few days but I think it’s something that you need to reread a lot because I’m already losing the change in my frame of mind!
Jennifer
June 11, 2018 at 11:47 amI read the book and quit for 5 weeks…. vaping 0 nicotine while drinking…. then failed and started again.
Lisa
March 2, 2018 at 3:38 pmDay 2….after 30 years of smoking. If it’s going to get harder….arrrrrgggghhhhhhh
Feeling anxiety, irritability, even confusion….what the hell were in those cigarettes??!!
John Lopez
March 20, 2018 at 5:52 pmIm also on day 2…try taking l theanine pills ..take 200mg twice a day for ever..it stops the urge to smoke.and it gives your body and mind real calmness..no anxiety and no cravings..
Rebecca
March 26, 2018 at 11:24 amI just posted to my fb account, you would think I was a crack addict. My head is banging, and I have the shakes!
Rose
March 29, 2018 at 10:37 pmYou can do it. Learn the breathing techniques when anxiety is attacking you. I know it’s not easy. if you need to cry then cry.
Danielle
September 12, 2018 at 9:04 amSomeone once told me giving up fags is harder than giving heroin ! Xx
Rob
March 1, 2018 at 6:33 amWhat a great challenge. I can smell again. I am breathing better. I don’t stink like an ashtray!!
K Scott
April 13, 2018 at 12:25 pmThat’s my 2 reason for quitting. 2nd day I quite for 8 mins started again. Hate smell
K Scott
April 13, 2018 at 12:28 pmMent 8 months I quit. I started again this is my 2nd day craving bad but we can all do it Its worth it I swear. Good luck
Rob
March 1, 2018 at 6:31 amDay 3 and very tough but doable. Got the 14mg patch. I thought day 2 was bad. Whew. I hanging on.
Osvaldo Roman
February 27, 2018 at 9:51 amDay 3 and i almost bought a pack but instead i order lots food and felt better but still the cravings are bad and people please dont use patches you dont need that crap cold turkey its the way to go
Taylor
May 2, 2018 at 9:22 pmTotally agree..the patches prolong the process
Ram
February 27, 2018 at 3:51 amIt’s 16 days I left smoking….the hardest days are 4,5,6,7 days. In my view, keep busy to your self by light physical work… eg in garden, kitchen, washing clothes, …. if you become involved in mental work it would be very tough….do extra from your daily work… if you involve in daily work you mind keep you telling it’s break time for smoking…