I have been a smoker for 24 years. I have tried multiple methods to quit smoking, but one obstacle continues to stand in my way.
I have Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), and the mere thought of quitting smoking induces crippling panic attacks.
It's not the actual nicotine withdrawal that is problematic for me (if it was, I wouldn't be able to sleep through the night without being woken up by withdrawal)
Despite knowing how awful smoking is for me, the anxiety trumps the health concerns. When I think about quitting, or simply not having that next cigarette, my heart races, I sweat, and no matter how busy I am, all I can think about is smoking.
I work in the medical field, and of course can't smoke at work, but I find multiple excuses throughout the day to skirt it. I'll offer to run out and grab lunch, coffee, anything to get me off the property and get a cigarette in.
I go through Febreze, hair spray and hand sanitizer like I own stock in the companies. I carry a change of clothes to wear when I'm smoking and change back into my "clean" clothes after smoking...Anything to hide the smoke smell from coworkers.
I don't want to live like this, but the panic attacks are downright debilitating.
Does anyone have any tips or tricks to alleviate the anxiety?
I have tried deep breathing, chewing gum, keeping busy, nicotine gum and lozenges, patches, hypnosis and Chantix. Honestly, I'd be happy if I can at least refrain from smoking during working hours.
