NicFree - quit smoking, nicotine, nicotine withdrawal, quit smoking resources

Nicotine withdrawal can be painful and uncomfortable for someone who is trying to quit smoking.  The symptoms of nicotine withdrawal include the quitter’s flu characterized by headache, runny nose and coughing for others.

If you are trying to quit smoking then you should prepare yourself for the physical and emotional discomforts that come with nicotine withdrawal.  Come people experience mild nicotine withdrawal symptoms while others get really bad nicotine withdrawal symptoms that they usually go back to smoking after experiencing them.

It is important to understand that smoking carries with it an addiction to nicotine so nicotine withdrawal symptoms should be expected while one is trying to quit smoking.   Some quitters who get advice from their doctors before quitting are the ones who are well-informed of the possible nicotine withdrawal symptoms like cravings, insomnia, fatigue, irritability and some tightness in the chest so they know what is happening to them and are more likely to take the nicotine withdrawal symptoms easily.

People who are really determined to quit smoking can bear the symptoms of nicotine withdrawal.  However, some people may need some nicotine withdrawal coping skills to beat their cravings and resist even just one stick of cigarette.

Among the nicotine withdrawal coping skills that you can practice are the following:

Distraction-
It is best to distract yourself when the urge to smoke attacks.  Nicotine withdrawal is never easy and getting help from some distractions like a pet project or something to keep your hands busy will do the trick until the next craving occurs.

Take time-
Expect to be tempted to smoke a stick or two but before you grab a stick, delay the act.  Sometimes, a momentary delay can distract the mind into doing something else besides smoking until you realize that the nicotine withdrawal symptom you are feeling has been forgotten.

Take a deep breath-
Angry people are told to take a deep breath before opening their mouths.  The same thing goes for those who are trying to quit smoking and who are feeling the effects of nicotine withdrawal.  While doing this, imagine yourself smelling good again and very relaxed.

Positive affirmation-
Try to repeat positive affirmations that do not necessarily mention smoking.  You can repeat the phrase: “I am living a healthy life again” over and over again until the urge passes. 

Do something-
Sometimes, the urge to smoke occurs and the nicotine withdrawal symptoms worsen when you have nothing better to do.  Try to keep yourself busy with a worthwhile project or doing some exercises when you fin yourself yearning even for just one puff.

Nicotine withdrawal is a phase that every smoker who is trying to quit experiences.  It is a matter of letting the nicotine withdrawal symptoms rule your mind or the other way around.