Hi Alice,
YES! Woooo hoooooo!
Ok, I know that is probably not the response you were expecting but do you realize how strong you are being? You have so many doubts and concerns yet you are still smoke free. You are still fighting and even more importantly you are still reaching out for support. This takes so much determination and resourcefulness. Be proud of yourself for getting through today and give yourself a reward! You deserve it.
Cravings can continue late into a quit. Know that they will pass and it will get easier. Some weight gain can occur while quitting for a number of reasons. One is that quitting can cause constipation, drink lots of water and eat plenty of fiber. Also, your metabolism might be slower now that you have quit smoking. Finally, without realizing it you might be snacking more, watch for hidden calories in juices, condiments and little things you grab throughout the day, it can really add up. The good news is many former smokers find it easier to lose the weight once they are quit. They feel better, have more energy and can breathe easier; making it more comfortable for them to exercise and begin to lead a more active lifestyle.
When it comes to being emotional, this is another common quitter concern. This can be due to the chemical changes your body is going through. Also, you now no longer have cigarettes to help you cope. Smoking is a maladaptive coping mechanism, you probably used it to deal with difficult emotions. You may have taken a break to have a smoke when you were angry, taking those few minutes to yourself to deep breath can be relaxing. Now that you can no longer do that, you need to find new, healthier ways to cope. Talk to a friend, come here to post, take a 5 minute walk or deep breath. It will take time to learn knew coping strategies but it will help in the long term success of your quit.
Keep posting, venting and fighting. You are doing great!
Ashley, Health Educator
I must admit that sometimes I feel like such a fake. One moment I seem on top of the world giving others advice, congratulating them on their success, and acacknowledging all the benefits of not smoking....but there are times that I feel alone, unwilling to take others advice (not even my own), and dwelling on all the great moments of smoking. It's a real frustrating process. But, I am glad we are all here to share in it together. Good luck tomorrow....You can do it! It will feel so good to get through it smoke free.
It made today a much brighter day
I just keep putting it off but I think my body, my mind and my soul need a little TLC.
