Why is it so hard to stop, the longest i think i've been without a ciggy is about 2 weeks, the worst thing is when you go on a night out and almost everyone seems to be lighting up! I gave in to temptation last time but am wondering how long it'll last this time . . 5 days and counting . .

Stick with it Lestat, otherwise all that agony you've gone through will have been a waste of time.

I must admit that I stopped when I started having my kids and that coincided with an end to my social life so I didn't have that temptation.

I used to dream about cigarettes. They would be standing upright all dressed in normal clothes and they would dance for me in my dreams. They would sing to me and taunt me. It was terrifying.

For me the 'I would do anything for a cig' feeling lasted for about a couple on months.

ha ha ha!! Mo, i know the feeling! the packet just opens and like a genie from a lamp a huge ciggy appears granting me just 3 puffs! ( thats not 3 gay men ). I find it's easier if i actually have a pack with me! it's always there if i need it but somehow having it there makes me not want to touch it too!? weird eh?

No not weird because having the packet there makes you feel in control. If it helps keep them on you but don't carry a lighter or matches.

Can't you change your routine for a couple of weeks? Perhaps visit the cinema or go to other places where smoking is not allowed.

My worst time used to be after a meal. Instead of lighting up I now have to eat something sweet with disasterous resuts but at least I can shed afew pounds.

Too right! after a meal is the worst. But i've sort worked out a psychological plan. If i think of other things when the temptation arises . . it soon go's away. I either get up and walk into the kitchen, garden etc . . and think of something else, or concentrate on the telly etc. It works for me anyway lol.
It was abit like sex with my partner, i always think of someone else. LOL!

Originally posted by Lestat

It was abit like sex with my partner, i always think of someone else

:o You think of the girl in Pizza Hut don't you!

Now that'd be telling!! LOL! Jack you'll get me in trouble. . Hope she doesn't read this ha ha!!

I work in a bar and have given up (Had a sneaky few must admit) but havve given up for about two weeks and finding it hard. Have done it before though for 2 1/2 years so knoww that i can do it again.

Think going cold turkey is hard, first try and cut out your routine cigs, ie; after a meal, a cuppa, in the car. Try and cut down the times where you normally have a fag.

Try and associate smoking with something you don't like (Sounds wacky but truely worked the first time) I was scared of being sick and so convinced myself that everytime I wanted a cig that If I smoked it I would be sick. After seeing that horrible advert on the tv (Where the fags are full of fat) I've convinced myself that i'm smoking fat, or just think of that advert (Please don't think Im wacky it really works!)

As Mo said it's easier to have a packet on you, then to have nothing at all. The temptation is less if you have a lighter on you!

Have tryed those nicorette inhilators, wierd at first but may help you if your missing the felling of having something in your fingers. Only about £6 aswell with a few nicotine cartridges.

Last point, don't manage a bar where all the customers smoke and most of the staff aswell, BECAUSE IT'S MURDER!

As long as you have good support around you from family and friends you can do it, You've come this far you can do it I'm sure ! Stick in there and good luck!!! X

Originally posted by crazey
I work in a bar
That's funny... work.... lol :P

I've convinced myself that i'm smoking fat, or just think of that advert (Please don't think Im wacky it really works!)
Don't believe her. She's just wacky full stop :lol:

As long as you have good support around you from family and friends you can do it, You've come this far you can do it I'm sure ! Stick in there and good luck!!! X
That's sound advice tho... very true!
Most of all dont buy cheap fags off your mates... you know like bensons when you really used to smoke Marlboro Lights. It only serves to bring you down further. ;)

Stick with the giving up!

I recommend reading "The Easy Way to Give Up Smoking" (or something like that) by Allen Carr. I found it very helpful, and I haven't smoked for nearly a year and a half!

You just have to stick with it, it is really hard at first (I was in tears quite often!), but it does get easier with time. You just have to be strong if you are around others who smoke. Eventually you will find it disgusting anyway! Keep thinking of the benefits: being healthier, being able to smell and taste things properly, not smelling of stale smoke, being richer and not worrying about getting lung cancer or any other serious smoking related disease.

Its worth the initial agony if you keep going. Good luck!






:)

Originally posted by DaBouncer
Most of all dont buy cheap fags off your mates... you know like bensons

Is someone a bit bitter because you couldn't shift them 10,000 required (fell off a lorry!) Benson because no one would buy them because there rank!!!

Never claimed to do work, just work there. Says him 'stand at the end of the bar ' bouncer. i make your job easily!!! Ha ! Your going to kill me later aren't you !!???

XXXX

Originally posted by crazey
Quote :
Most of all dont buy cheap fags off your mates... you know like bensons

Is someone a bit bitter because you couldn't shift them 10,000 required (fell off a lorry!) Benson because no one would buy them because there rank!!!

Never claimed to do work, just work there. Says him 'stand at the end of the bar ' bouncer. i make your job easily!!! Ha ! Your going to kill me later aren't you !!???

XXXX
Damn right I am!

:thumbsup:

Originally posted by meesh
I recommend reading "The Easy Way to Give Up Smoking" (or something like that) by Allen Carr. I found it very helpful, and I haven't smoked for nearly a year and a half!

You just have to stick with it, it is really hard at first (I was in tears quite often!), but it does get easier with time. You just have to be strong if you are around others who smoke. Eventually you will find it disgusting anyway! Keep thinking of the benefits: being healthier, being able to smell and taste things properly, not smelling of stale smoke, being richer and not worrying about getting lung cancer or any other serious smoking related disease.

Its worth the initial agony if you keep going. Good luck!
I second the using of the easyway book.


I read it and packed in straight away,never touched one since.Found it really easy because it pyscologically(excuse spelling) trains your brain into finding ciggies repulsive.Every time I smell someone who smokes now it turns my stomach and remember i used to smell like that

Originally posted by Lestat
ha ha ha!! Mo, i know the feeling! the packet just opens and like a genie from a lamp a huge ciggy appears granting me just 3 puffs! ( thats not 3 gay men ). I find it's easier if i actually have a pack with me! it's always there if i need it but somehow having it there makes me not want to touch it too!? weird eh?
That's got to be the best way to quit I reckon. I always find it easier to resist the urge to smoke if I know I have some on me. I reckon when I finally quit, I'll do it by just going without a cigarette for as long as I can. Eventually I'll realise that I don't need to do it any more.

Our kid tried, when his sprog came along, but found it hard when he was with his mates drinking.

To solve this he actually gave up beer too for the first month to get out of the habit, still went the pub regularly just drank coke. Never smoked a cigarette since. The best thing he's ever done!

I quit smoking yesterday and i am obviously craving my cancer sticks.

So i thought i would ask if anyone has any advice for people when they stop smoking. Sure someone must have some tips..

Also if they no anyware with cheap food as i could eat a horse! Lol

Suck aniseed balls, or any boiled sweet, it keeps your mouth occupied and you don't think about it as much.

Honestly, that how I stopped.

I quit smoking yesterday and i am obviously craving my cancer sticks.

Fowler, you need to be stubborn to beat this.
Prepare to put at least a stone of weight on.

I smoked 40+ a day for years, and the way stopped was this.
I bet my (then wife) i could go without a fag for longer than her.
The bet was £10. Because we were both stubborn eg: He will not win me, she will not beat me etc, before we knew it we had both stopped.
The first two weeks are rough but then the advantages are brilliant. I have not had a fag for 13 years now.
good luck

I didn't put any weight on either BTW

I didn't put any weight on either BTW

I did Nick,
i lived on beer and chinese for the first two weeks, which still must be cheaper than fags now. They were £1.60 for 20 regal when i stopped

I used to smoke 20 - 30 a day but I quit last year! Yipee!

The thing that got me through it was those lolly & sherbet dip sweets! hehe

I'd suggest anything that keep's your mouth occupied (I know what u are thinking ;) ) but seriously, sweets, lollies, chewing gum etc are great for taking your mind off it.

I used lollies coz I held the stick like it was a cigarette!

I know it's hard but you can do it! :clap:

Originally posted by saxon76tr
I did Nick,
i lived on beer and chinese for the first two weeks, which still must be cheaper than fags now. They were £1.60 for 20 regal when i stopped

Ahhh, you should have tried the aniseed balls, thay are low fat. I had to cut down on the beer as my will power started to fail the more I drank.

I had to cut down on the beer as my will power started to fail the more I drank.

Good point Nick,
that is one you need be be careful of.
Another one is after a week or so your mind tells you that you can do it, so you think great its easy i will just have one last one, if i could just limit myself to 2 a day. Forget it, you smoke or dont.

The real acid test is going to a pub for the night with smoking friends, it's a kind of torture.

I was a 40 a day smoker and gave up with a click of the fingers after reading Allen Carr, as have at least 6 or 7 other forum members. I'm the first one to bring it up, but the disciples will come flowing in to back me up, you'll see.

Six quid for the book and a life time's freedom of from the evil weed.

Remeber, you are giving up nothing, but you have so much to gain from not smoking.

"The easy way to give up smoking" by Allen Carr

Go read it - there is nothing to lose, no?

Cheers for the advice folks.

I have been out for my first none smoking break today and it was hell.

I'm currentl'y sat chewing on a biro at my desk imagining it is a cig.

I will beat this cause i'll look like a fool if i don't!

Having never been a smoker, I can't offer any advice or empathy. But I certainly wish you the best of luck and hope it goes well for you. You're doing really well to get through that first break. Well done!

Let us know how it progresses.

Originally posted by theflyingfish
I was a 40 a day smoker and gave up with a click of the fingers after reading Allen Carr, as have at least 6 or 7 other forum members. I'm the first one to bring it up, but the disciples will come flowing in to back me up, you'll see.

Six quid for the book and a life time's freedom of from the evil weed.

Remeber, you are giving up nothing, but you have so much to gain from not smoking.

"The easy way to give up smoking" by Allen Carr

Go read it - there is nothing to lose, no?

Here is the original thread
http://www.sheffieldforum.co.uk/showthread.php?s=&threadid=12584&highlight=allen+carr

And here is another that came after...
http://www.sheffieldforum.co.uk/showthread.php?s=&threadid=18420&highlight=stop+smoking

Whats the name of the book.Iam desperatly trying to give up a 30 a day habit, and failing miserably.Any help would be gratefully recieved.

'Allen Carr's easy way to stop smoking' Get it from bookshops or amazon. Click topmost link in my post above and see how easy it can be...
DO NOT get his follow up book with similar title - it's cack.

Originally posted by draggletail
'Allen Carr's easy way to stop smoking' Get it from bookshops or amazon. Click topmost link in my post above and see how easy it can be...
DO NOT get his follow up book with similar title - it's cack.

Do u have a copy Draggletail? Could you get my the ISBN?

I Quit over ten years ago using the book but I borrowed it and gave it back later, sorry.
you could order it from WH Smiths by phone, it takes two working days to come. You would not need ISBN - most booksellers are familiar with the title.
Remember though 'Allen Carr's easy way to stop smoking' is best, not the follow up book with similar title:thumbsup:

Just googled it and comes up as ISBN: 1841930563.
Published 2001, though with a different publisher. Reprint? Used to be Penguin....

2 Threads merged.

This is my 2nd attempt at it, again my downfall is when Im out drinking :help:

Just imagine PW & me sitting on your shoulder everytime u get the urge to light up Deej :heyhey:

Now theres a thought for the day :hihi: :help:

you are not struggling alone!!

Originally posted by Deejay
This is my 2nd attempt at it, again my downfall is when Im out drinking :help:

Quit drinking then buddy :P

Try getting rid of all your smoking equipment INCLUDING ASHTRAYS - no-one should be allowed to smoke in the house as this gives mice cancer apparently...

Keep lighters, as they are still useful, particularly if you are fortunate enough to posess an open fire/wood burning stove.

Tea helps (just the ordinary brown stuff that everybody has - although I like mine white). Drink cup after cup after cup if needs be (but never be too far from a toilet - I hear the public loos in Sheffield have improved lately but have no personal experience of these yet - and p*****g is pretty personal, at least to a Ms).

Don't go out drinking until your'e SURE your'e over it.

Hope this advice helps - it worked for me, and it's a good thing it's bin day today (I can hear the bin lorry outside as we speak).

However, I AM sitting here with a rolled up handkerchief in my mouth ....

I must say that yesterday was sheer hell. But today seems a bit better. Touch wood.

The downside is i am now eating like a horse i had four meals yesterday as opposed to my usual one!!

Well we'll see how it goes

Originally posted by ianmitchell
Quit drinking then buddy :P

You serious ???? Ive never been so insulted :P

Stop drinking... :rant:

Well some people stopped drinking for a while to quit smoking.

Why don't you?

How did you start Deejay? Were your mates smoking or something?

Take away my fags but don't take away my beer :P

I started smoking years ago.. Most of my friends smoke, one of my housemates does (git!) and its lack of self control on my part I admit that..

Pretty_Woman has the right idea, she saw me about to spark up and ripped my fags up in the pub :loopy:

Originally posted by Deejay
Take away my fags but don't take away my beer :P

I started smoking years ago.. Most of my friends smoke, one of my housemates does (git!) and its lack of self control on my part I admit that..

Pretty_Woman has the right idea, she saw me about to spark up and ripped my fags up in the pub :loopy:

Work out how much money you'd save, that might help to motivate you.

Originally posted by ianmitchell
Work out how much money you'd save, that might help to motivate you.

Fraid its back on the Nicorette till further notice :gag:

stop being a girl and just stop! dont tell anyone ur stopping and dont put times on it or limits. dont beat urself up if u have one when u out ! dont worry! too cold to smoke anyway

I was once told at Weight Watchers... Dont worry if you have a slight temptation of something you shouldnt eat... Treat yourself... Tomorrow is always another day to start again...

Never be too hard on yourself...

Just be good to yourself! lol

Originally posted by NatalieSheff
stop being a girl and just stop! dont tell anyone ur stopping and dont put times on it or limits. dont beat urself up if u have one when u out ! dont worry! too cold to smoke anyway

Now then mouthy :P I was just saying I find it difficult not to smoke when drinking, Im now armed and I shall NOT fall off the ladder (he tells himself)

Don't beat myself up if I have one while Im out ?? Kinda defeats the object of smoking don't you think :suspect:

Dee :)

Originally posted by Deejay
Now then mouthy :P I was just saying I find it difficult not to smoke when drinking, Im now armed and I shall NOT fall off the ladder (he tells himself)

Don't beat myself up if I have one while Im out ?? Kinda defeats the object of smoking don't you think :suspect:

Dee :)
yeah but you could be really naughty and smoke in the day. at least if you only smoke with a drink its not as bad-mardy bum!:hihi:

Day 3 now (no cigs)... Am I getting moody ??? :rant:

Yay for Haribo Sour Mix :suspect:

Originally posted by Deejay
Day 3 now (no cigs)... Am I getting moody ??? :rant:


The first week is the hardest, it gets easier, honest.

Originally posted by nick2
The first week is the hardest, it gets easier, honest.

I know mate, I been here before...

BE STRONG :clap:

Originally posted by Deejay
I know mate, I been here before...

BE STRONG :clap:

I found my Playstation and GTA a great help.

Originally posted by Deejay
Day 3 now (no cigs)... Am I getting moody ??? :rant:

Yay for Haribo Sour Mix :suspect:

I'm on day 4 mate. It's getting a bit easier than it first was but it's still hell.

I have gone from eating a meal a day to a round 3 plus snacks.

I'll be a fat bloater by the time i'm done. Must say one thing thats motivating me is the fact that i can really smell smoke on people, this means that people could smell it on me!

Yuk!

Originally posted by Fowler
I'm on day 4 mate. It's getting a bit easier than it first was but it's still hell.

I have gone from eating a meal a day to a round 3 plus snacks.

I'll be a fat bloater by the time i'm done. Must say one thing thats motivating me is the fact that i can really smell smoke on people, this means that people could smell it on me!

Yuk!

I think u r doing really well!
It's bloody hard to quit but u have to keep saying to yourself that u HAVE quit now and that u don't want to let yourself down after you come this far, so just keep telling yourself not to pick that ciggarette up! I know u can do it!

The first 3 days are the hardest and it's even been said that it's as difficult as coming down off heroin! (don't hold me to that though)

The next hardest day is the 7th, by this time your body has gone a whole week without it's craving and your blood will be curdling... DO NOT GIVE IN!!!

After that it starts to get a lot easier day by day. Every day you get past is another day it gets that further away from when u quit, and u feel another day of achievment!

You will even start forgetting that you ever did smoke and whilst u probably used to reach for a ciggarette in the morning, it won't even enter your brain. I look at a packet of ciggarettes like they are foreign to me now, and you will too. Soon you will be saying what was all the fuss about!

The 3rd hardest stage is after 1 month because it's your last stage of getting rid of the toxins from your body and it will desperatley try and make you pick one up (thoughts like well one won't hurt) but believe me it will and you'll be hooked again after all your hardwork and efforts!

After a month has passed you will stop eating as much, feel like you can breath deeper, your hair, skin and nails etc condition will improve a lot and you will begin to taste the flavours in food more too. You will generally feel healthier, less tired and will start to really notice the smell of smoke on people!

Anyway I better stop writing before I write a book but I hope what I've said helps in some way.

Luv Sparklesista x x x

Originally posted by Fowler
Must say one thing thats motivating me is the fact that i can really smell smoke on people, this means that people could smell it on me!

Yuk!

Yep, I noticed a distinct smell on the work colleagues and my housemate :hihi:

I came close today though! (Nicorette is on multi-save from boots)

I've stopped for nearly 4 months now, quite easy when you get going.

Its been said before but 'Allen Carrs Easy Way To Stop Smoking' (http://www.amazon.co.uk/exec/obidos/ASIN/0140277633/ref=lm_lb_1/202-8414099-3624630) really helped me. Its only £7, and worth every penny.

Chris.

Nicotine takes about 2 days to leave your body. Any cravings after that are phsychological (never can spell that).

Nicotine in equal quantities is far more lethal and addictive than heroin!


I reckon the first two days must be the hardest ( I stopped last year for 2 months ..........don't ask about the rest) after that it is the situations you are in that become hard if you want them to be.

Your best bet is , as Allen Carr says, just don't light up!

But............you need the trigger to happen that really makes you want to stop, then grab the bull by the horns. I am currently awaiting my trigger again.

If you live with friends/family get them to hide/destory the your lighters and matches.

Get all your local shops/newsagents to not sell you any.

Originally posted by ianmitchell
If you live with friends/family get them to hide/destory the your lighters and matches.

Get all your local shops/newsagents to not sell you any.

They cant exactly refuse mate, you are an adult after all :P

Day 5 so far.. Big test tonight (pub :help: )

go DEEJAY!!!!

just think that if you have just one................that's it. Also not buying them (and bumming them from friends) doesn't mean you are a non smoker.

Don't fall off the wagon and have to start again Deejay!

You do it for all us saddos that can't!

Bet you smell great too.

Originally posted by ianmitchell
[...] get them to hide/destory the your lighters and matches.

Get all your local shops/newsagents to not sell you any.
It doesn't work like that. You have to eliminate your desire to have a fag, instead of the cigarrettes themselves. Its easy to quit once you've worked out you don't like smoking, because then you stop making excuses like 'i enjoy a fag' - if you enjoyed fags you wouldn't be thinking about quiting.

It took me a while, i quit three or four times and came back to it again and again and again. Then, with the aid of Allen Carr, you teach yourself 'i hate smoking' and from then on its nice to stop, enjoyable even. You can do it, its easy.

Chris.

If you know anyone involved in yoga ask them to show you yoga deep breathing - the calming effect is a useful substitute for your fag. It may help, but nothing can substitute for the chemicals - that's up to you and your will power. There is also the finger fidget attraction of smoking - get some worry beads instead.
Above all, look forward to the time that people don't despise you, that you can taste your food again and that you may possibly live longer. Would you kiss an ash tray?

Originally posted by Deejay
They cant exactly refuse mate, you are an adult after all :P

Day 5 so far.. Big test tonight (pub :help: )

Do you want me to come with you mate???

I'll make sure you don't smoke, I'll tie your hands behind your back and give you beer through a straw if you want it.

Originally posted by ianmitchell
Do you want me to come with you mate???

I'll make sure you don't smoke, I'll tie your hands behind your back and give you beer through a straw if you want it.

Nice idea mate.. I have no cigs and I have no intention of buying any either just for the satisfaction of smoking one! plus I jokingly asked my housemate for a ciggie other night, and in non polite terms he told me to go run and jump :suspect:

No Cigs, Just beer :clap:

Anyway, a certain Forum member rips them up is she sees me with any....

Best way I've found to stop smoking is to carry on smoking :P But don't smoke your normal brand. Instead smoke either rolley's or something nasty like Camel. They taste so bad you'll not even want a cig after long.

Smoking none at all is better and cheaper J :P

Originally posted by Lestat
Why is it so hard to stop, the longest i think i've been without a ciggy is about 2 weeks, the worst thing is when you go on a night out and almost everyone seems to be lighting up! I gave in to temptation last time but am wondering how long it'll last this time . . 5 days and counting . .

Lestat,
If you really want to quit there is a pill out on the market now called Committ, and it has been quite effective on me mother and father!(former smokers)

3 weeks on saturday since I had a cigarette after smoking for 15 years. I have not used patches etc. (although being ill was the catalyst)

I gave up 5 weeks ago. I had given up once before for 6 months after reading Alan Carr's book, but started after thinking one fag at a party wouldn't harm...

This time I'm cold turkeying. After 5 weeks I have no physical desire for a fag any more, but after meals, with a beer or a coffee I do think "Oh, a ciggie would be nice". At work I drink green tea instead of coffee, in the evening it's OK because my partner has stopped as well. I don't think carrying fags about with you an work.

Instead of thinking of the health risks, I look at the people in the street who smoke and think "do I want to be one of them?". Look at them, most are common or chavs, have bad clothes and look as if they've just got out of prison. The decision is clear.

And with the money I've saved I now buy better gin (Tanqueray or Bombay Sapphire) rather than cheap crap. (Save my lugs to rot my liver ! haha)

I'm currently trying FRESH FRUIT, as this is good for you anyway and the peeling/eating thereof can help stave off a 'craving'.

Didn't anticipate making a New Year's resolution to stop, but I feel calm enough to do it, so I'm going for it.

Good luck all (myself included) - hopefully we can be rid of this evil habit!

Go for it folks, I packed up 23 years ago and now I find it hard to understand why I used to chug 40 a day down my throat.....and it stinks too, it's like kissing an old ash tray :gag:

OK - Here goes! I stopped at midnight last night, 1st Jan 2005 Whos stopping with me :clap:

Lets see how long it lasts this time.:thumbsup:

Originally posted by Lestat
OK - Here goes! I stopped at midnight last night, 1st Jan 2005 Whos stopping with me :clap:

Lets see how long it lasts this time.:thumbsup:

Have you cracked yet mate :suspect:

Softmints do the trick, as does chewing gum :D

Originally posted by Lestat
OK - Here goes! I stopped at midnight last night, 1st Jan 2005 Whos stopping with me :clap:

Lets see how long it lasts this time.:thumbsup:

Right then Lestat your on:thumbsup:

Two days in and finding it a doddle:clap: (chewing on my third biro, keyboards on fire keeping my hands busy and I've done a lb of Yorkshire Mixture so far:roll: )

I can do it, I can do it , I CAN DO IT!!!!!!!!:nod::clap::nod::clap:

Still going strong! I even walked past a shop without going in, must admit thats been the worst part.

Claycraft WE CAN DO IT! :thumbsup: chewing gum and drinking lots of tea :P thats been it so far. Got to admit watching the guys going for fag breaks at work was abit horrible but got over it.

I just adjust my mind to something else totally. . . .
Aaaaagh! ( weep! ):shocked:

Just remember guys, it only takes two days for nicotine to leave your body and an instant to replace it.

That fact has kept me going. Knowing that after the first two days I would be a fool to go back.

Originally posted by Lestat
I just adjust my mind to something else totally. . . .
Aaaaagh! ( weep! ):shocked:

Luckily at work I have plenty of distractions walk past my desk everyday.. Kinda makes me forget where I was :hihi:

Bonny you best not be back on them :suspect:

Originally posted by Deejay
Luckily at work I have plenty of distractions walk past my desk everyday.. Kinda makes me forget where I was :hihi:

Bonny you best not be back on them :suspect:

No chance!!!! I have had the odd pang but not given in as I don't want to be a smoker anymore. I like feeling healthier and having extra money.

What about you Deejay??? You being a good boy??
:gag:

WITHDRAWL REPORT

Evening of 3rd day:Felt sick and a little light headed (Anyone else get that or was it just that my beef was a little under cooked?).

4th day: First day back at work, murder:mad:. Almost caved in twice and started looking for nearest tobacco outlet:evil: but got through it:thumbsup:

Truthfully.........................it's been easier so far than on previous attempts (failed after a day and a half before:shakes: ).

Trust me ClayCraft it will get easier mate!

I had a lapse at Christmas and have been fully on the wagon again since NYE, and as long I keep myself busy I don't think about smoking or stuffing my face due to withdrawal symptoms..

Be strong :thumbsup:

Update.. C'mon :suspect:

Who's failed ?

Who's put a stone on already!?

or....

Are you all doing well :clap:

Originally posted by Deejay
Trust me ClayCraft it will get easier mate!

I had a lapse at Christmas and have been fully on the wagon again since NYE, and as long I keep myself busy I don't think about smoking or stuffing my face due to withdrawal symptoms..

Be strong :thumbsup:

You be strong on that business trip.

NO SMOKING!

I quit on the 1st as well and was doing really well until a really stressful day involving hospitals and famly members. I am using the nicotine gum which has been spot on but I forgot it today in the mess and I wasn't strong enough :-(

Anyway today is a brand new day, the allan carr book is on order, the gum is in my gob so please can I join this little support group?

Course you can Maddy! I am having a really tough time at the moment trying to give up! I've still not had one yet and it's now a WEEK! oh my god!

I have to admit - I have been very irritable though, like an old lady at times.:hihi:

BUT the will is still there!:clap: anyone else to join . . the more the merrier.

Here is my update:

I have been stopped 4 weeks on Saturday. On Tuesday I felt that I had got over the hump and now didn't even think about them.

I feel good and it is much easier the longer you are stopped. I don't seem to care about them anymore or think about them...................and have more money so justified my purchase of two antique chairs easily!

I've stopped this time without the gum. A week now and to be honest after the first couple of days the desire had gone..

Feeling better for it :clap:

I haven't had one since Tuesday afternoon - I don't miss them in the slightest (of course this could be because I have the fluey'cold buggy thing thats doing the rounds - hence I feel like something the cat threw up:heyhey: ).

I had been thinking about giving up anyway, so I think I will just see how not smoking goes even after the cold has gone :cool:

Big thumbs up to all you peeps who have stopped smoking. Did any of you know you can also get help from the Shefield Stop Smoking Service who run groups and one-to-one sesions for 7 weeks? (tel 0800 068 4490) or see web site. The withdrawal symptoms last for about 4 weeks so once you have got past that stage it will hopefully get easier. I run the one-to-one sessions at work and work with groups in the evenings and many people find having the support helpful. Pleased to give online support and tips (no pun intended!) to anyone who wants it. It is NEVER easy to stop as the body is addicted to the nicotine and lots of smoking is due to habit but keep with it and its the best single thing you can do for your health (gets off soapbox).

NB - Tobacco is a unique consumer product in that it kills 1 in 2 users when used as INTENDED.

Originally posted by msbehavin
withdrawal symptoms last for about 4 weeks so once you have got past that stage it will hopefully get easier.

Blimey, that explains my "getting over the hump" as it was about 28 days!!

It was quite a dramatic difference too for me to have noticed the way I felt.

Day 19.. The mood swings are kicking in now :suspect:

Day 15, my craving really kicked in about 5 days ago - it takes about 1 1/2 hours for the craving to dissipate by which time I am just about ready to start the whole sorry craving all over again.

I refuse to use the Nicotine Patches though, I tried them last year and had to stop using them after four days!! Side effects included - given a sensation of numbness but painful with it(??)to whichever body part the patch was attached to, frightful insomnia- even though I was knackered I was too hyper to sleep AND when I did manage to drop off I had the freakiest, weirdest dreams!!!

AND (just to add insult to injury)

they did not stop the cravings - Aaaghhh!!!!

Ah well, am sure it will get easier eventually (I hope!!):(

7 weeks now!!!

I forget to even think about them now. Not bad for 20 a day for 17 years.

Good Bonny... Still not smoking here either :clap: :banana:

Anyone else still off the evil sticks :suspect:

Originally posted by Lestat

It was abit like sex with my partner, i always think of someone else. LOL!

Thats just harsh ... Lol ...

Originally posted by Deejay
Good Bonny... Still not smoking here either :clap: :banana:

Anyone else still off the evil sticks :suspect:

yeeeeeeeyyy Deeeeejaaaaayyyy

We is tha daddies
:clap: :clap:

I know when I first posted I had stopped for 5 days . . . this went on for a week and a half before I gave in!!

I have now stopped again - this time I'm going to do it! It's been 5 days again. I have the willpower this time - I've purposely been out twice with friends that smoke and have not been tempted - I can do it!

Does anybody want to stop with me ?:thumbsup:

u can only stop smoking if you want to, nothing else matters.
although as i stopped when Number 6 went up to 50p for 20 and i only had a drag with my peers at school, it was easy for me.

Has anyone used any patches / gum or any other aids to help? Not sure I can do it this time using raw will power alone. I don't smoke nearly as much anymore because I have 2 kids and won't smoke anywhere near them but it's maybe harder because it's my only time alone when I have a fag. I do want to quit before they're old enough to think that their Mum is a stinky old fag puffing hag. :(

Originally posted by Lestat
I know when I first posted I had stopped for 5 days . . . this went on for a week and a half before I gave in!!

I have now stopped again - this time I'm going to do it! It's been 5 days again. I have the willpower this time - I've purposely been out twice with friends that smoke and have not been tempted - I can do it!

Does anybody want to stop with me ?:thumbsup:

I've stopped too Lestat, been 3 days for me .. although I dont have an adictive nature so I just decided I didn't want to smell anymore! Plus all my mates over the years have given up too.

I have stopped smoking 3 times in my life. Simply just stopped. Decided that I couldn't be bothered smoking. The first two times I lasted over a year (on both occassions), and only started up because I felt like smoking again.

I quit last September. Decided I was fed up of it. I don't intend to start again, and suffered no withdrawl symptoms. There was no cold-turkey phase. No itching for a cig. Just one day, 20 a day...the next..nil!

Originally posted by Lestat
I know when I first posted I had stopped for 5 days . . . this went on for a week and a half before I gave in!!

I have now stopped again - this time I'm going to do it! It's been 5 days again. I have the willpower this time - I've purposely been out twice with friends that smoke and have not been tempted - I can do it!

Does anybody want to stop with me ?:thumbsup:

I had been given up for about 2 years, and I went back on he evil cigs earlier this year, during the stress of the break up of my LTR...

I had managed a couple of weeks off the cigs about a month ago, but I got stressed again, and had a few days back on the ciggies again.

It's now a couple of weeks into the quit, again, and I am still twitching like mad, wanting a ciggie....

I am doing it cold-turkey, too... (well with the help of wrigleys chewing gum...., in lorryloads)

Msb, I didn't realise the cravings continued for four weeks..
I thought it was only a couple of weeks and then they were suposed to be behind you....! :(

PT

have just come back from corfu where i smoked about 40 a day and since i have got back im attempting to go cold turkey with it- have just got allen carrs book and am gonna start reading it tonight and im going to the gym every night too to make myself feel better, although im just beginning to snap at people now- eek!!!

i know i can do it though- its for the best!!!!

I used to smoke. Gave up twice with patches (lsted 9 months and 6 months) but went back to smoking when drinking. I never want a cig when I'm sober but soon as I've had a drink.

Been ill since Friday (betterish now) and had one of my periodic cough up everything times. Determined not to smoke again.

the only help I could give is when you want that fag think how you'll feel after it. As soon as you light it you know that you've done the wrong thing

Excellent! so altogether now we have Serapis, Beakerzoid, PlainTalker, Scottf & Robbie !

Come on guy's we CAN do it - Starting Now! If you ever get the urge, just post on here and we'll give each other moral support!!!:thumbsup:

I actually have a pack of Marlboro lights looking at me with about 3 left in it - but I'm determined NOT to touch them - it was 3 left when I decided to quit and it'll still be 3 left when I can successfully say I've beaten it!!!

p.s - how long does the craving last - it kwas really strong the first two days but now It's alot easier . . .

the craving will never fully go away. It becomes manageable in a couple of weeks normally.

lestat- snap them 3 fags straight away!!!! go on- make it a symbolic moment!!!!!!

So are we going to have a no-smoking club then?

oh no see your all making me feel so guilty for smoking. my problem is - i'm just not ready to give up yet. i really should because i need to save the money........and my health !!

when i've tried before and failed its because i've realised i don't want to. i need to want to first.

the fact is - i like it. i know its so bad for me but i just plain like it.

i don't know what to do :help:

Originally posted by Lee1979
oh no see your all making me feel so guilty for smoking. my problem is - i'm just not ready to give up yet. i really should because i need to save the money........and my health !!

when i've tried before and failed its because i've realised i don't want to. i need to want to first.

the fact is - i like it. i know its so bad for me but i just plain like it.

i don't know what to do :help:

you cannot really give up until you are ready. Wait till you are ready.

I'm the same Lee - I liked it too mate but theres alot of things to still like that dont slowly kill you.

Scottf, I'm gonna leave those 3 fags for the moment - I want to know that when the craving is there, I can still look at them and not be bothered!!

Come on Lee, join us in stopping!! :thumbsup:

Originally posted by Lee1979
oh no see your all making me feel so guilty for smoking. my problem is - i'm just not ready to give up yet. i really should because i need to save the money........and my health !!

when i've tried before and failed its because i've realised i don't want to. i need to want to first.

the fact is - i like it. i know its so bad for me but i just plain like it.

i don't know what to do :help:

Lea, you smoke about 10 a day don't you, so thats what? 2.60 a day? ok so at the very least you could save £870!!!!!! in 12 months- imagine how much that would help you!!

come on lea- we can quit together!!!!!! we can do stuff to take our minds off ciggies!!!

Originally posted by Lestat
Scottf, I'm gonna leave those 3 fags for the moment - I want to know that when the craving is there, I can still look at them and not be bothered!!

But when you ARE bothered by them you might be having a weak day and you might just have 1 puff!!!!

Temptation is the key to all sin!!

Originally posted by scottf
Lea, you smoke about 10 a day don't you, so thats what? 2.60 a day? ok so at the very least you could save £870!!!!!! in 12 months- imagine how much that would help you!!

come on lea- we can quit together!!!!!! we can do stuff to take our minds off ciggies!!!

yeh but when we are out thats the worst part. having a drink and not smoking ? don't know if i could do that.

i can stop during work. not a problem. it doesn't bother me that much anyway for some reason. i only really smoke at work out of boredom.

i've got to agree with robbie. i'm just not ready so i won't be able to do it properly. problem is - will i ever be ready ?

thats the thng- you will probably spend the rest of your life waiting to be ready- you have to be proactive and MAKE yourself ready- remind yourself of what they actually are and what they actually do!!!!!

i know what they do to me. i know they are bad. i should want to stop and on some level i'm sure i do. its just not a level i can reach. i don't know how to make myself want to stop.

i have stopped before for four months (the reason i started again is too long to go into here) but i'm just not sure i can do it again. i don't want to set myself up to fail.


hhhmmm am going to have to have a good think about all this.

I used to smoke nearly two packs a day, since switching to roll ups I now get through ten or so a day. I'd love to give up but am appalling at persevering, I went to the quacks to enroll on a smoking cessation course but due to the CRB being awful with processing times the lady who was going to run it has yet to be cleared.

It's my crutch I use to get through the day - it's dirty, harmful and generally disgusting I'd love to stop but at the moment it's not happening.

Originally posted by Lee1979
i know what they do to me. i know they are bad. i should want to stop and on some level i'm sure i do. its just not a level i can reach. i don't know how to make myself want to stop.

i have stopped before for four months (the reason i started again is too long to go into here) but i'm just not sure i can do it again. i don't want to set myself up to fail.


hhhmmm am going to have to have a good think about all this.


i will help you through it!!! :)

ok. i've been thinking about it and i'm going to try.

i haven't brought any ciggies to work with me as i'm going to stop smoking at work. that will be the first stage.

does anyone think this works, i.e doing it bit by bit or should i just try a quit cold turkey? :(

Well done everyone so far :clap:

I quit smoking 2 and a half months ago having smoked 20 a day (or more on some days) for 12-13 years.

I had a couple of unsuccessful attempts in the past, using willpower, or patches/gum.

This time, the difference was, I read Allen Carrs EASYWAY. And it really is just that. The withdrawal was fine, in fact I enjoyed it. Bring it on, kill that nicotine monster living in my body!! I haven't need to use willpower at all.

My advice to all those trying to 'give up' smoking, which Allen Carr will tell you is totally the wrong way of looking at it (What exactly are you giving up??), is to read his book. Don't put yourself through the willpower torture. The willpower method is unnecessary, honestly. Why go through the coming weeks, months, years, thinking you need to be strong. Why keep torturing yourself thinking you have made a sacrifice giving up something you think you enjoy.

Read the book, honestly it works. If you chose not to read it, then good luck, we are behind you all the way.

Lestat, throw away the 3 cigs...... pleaseeeee. Why torture yourself. I know you think that they help you be strong, but honestly until you can get over the FEAR of not having any means to smoke, you will never get rid of your drug addiction.


(I sound like an Allen Carr employee!!)

tried allen carr and it didn't work for me.

at the moment i'm using willpower. i've managed to make it past lunch time without having one - so i'm over a big hurdle.

well done leanne!!! :D :D

Im having the worst day at work possible but i still havn't had one :D :D

Originally posted by Lee1979
tried allen carr and it didn't work for me.

at the moment i'm using willpower. i've managed to make it past lunch time without having one - so i'm over a big hurdle.

This is a shame, and I've said to people before who said the book didn't work, that you haven't taken in what he's saying. I can only suggest you read it again. Seriously once you get what he's saying, you just get it. It kinda goes click in your head and you just realise you don't need to smoke anymore. If that didn't happen, your nicotine addiction is very strong and you've glazed over when reading it so not to face the truth of what he says!

I do know where you are coming from, believe me I smoked like a trouper and have said all those things you said in you previous post (sorry hope you don't think I'm picking on you! others have said the same thing, I just chose your quotes as they are recent!)

when i've tried before and failed its because i've realised i don't want to. i need to want to first.


the fact is - i like it. i know its so bad for me but i just plain like it.

These are all familiar traits, I went through believe me. You convince yourself that you actually like smoking. You actually like to inhale crap into your lungs, like to smell, like to be antisocial, like to smoke when drinking, after eating etc etc (you've heard it all before I know- so had I). But the actual truth is, what you actually like and enjoy is the nicotine, pure and simple. You need to realise you are a nicotine addict and your main fear is not getting your nicotine fix. Instead of sticking a needle in your arm, your sticking a cig into your mouth! It has nothing to do with hand to mouth or having a drink in the pub which are the most common things people convince themselves they will miss. Once you realise that your nicotine addiction is dominating your life, it is like a revelation and you can easily tell that nicotine monster in you to f**k the hell off!!!

Honestly willpower had nothing to do with it for me. I am still surprised that a book could cure me to be honest. I never thought I could stop smoking. I never thought the time was right, I came up with every excuse under the sun until I read the book.

I know people who've had to read it more than once to take it in, and actually think about what it's saying.

Again sounding like an Allen Carr employee!! I'm a big fan, I'm sure you can tell.

I stopped about 13 years ago, for 2 reasons , 1/ I wanted to stop and 2/ my daughter wanted clarinet lessons that I couldn't afford so I spent my cig money on her lessons. Killed two birds with one stone.:thumbsup:

Everyone has been quiet recently! How are you all getting on?
I'm still not smoking :clap:

Foxx - I have to admit, I've had 3 since I said I'd stop!!! :( but it wasn't the 3 in the pack - It was on a night out. I had 1 in the past 4 days so far. . . . . :|

Im going to try not to have one at work today.:help:

PT is still off the ciggies !

It's been just over a month, now, (this time round) and I can't say it's been easy, I *have*, really wanted to smoke, especially when folk have lit up around me...

Still... doing well, IMO...

PT

Well done PT! I'm on Day 15 myself, finding it difficult at times, ok at others (especially when I went and bought myself a new skirt and top at the weekend with the money I've saved so far!).

Going out this weekend though; for me, a cigarette has always gone perfectly with a drink. So I am psyching myself up for it to be very difficult...

Am starting Pilates classes on Saturday, so I hope to feel some benefit of being a non-smoker then... :thumbsup:

Not doing well im afraid- have broke out allen carr in the hope that it will help me!!!

Originally posted by Foxxx
Everyone has been quiet recently! How are you all getting on?
I'm still not smoking :clap:

erm...well...erm......

Originally posted by Plain Talker
PT is still off the ciggies !

It's been just over a month, now, (this time round) and I can't say it's been easy, I *have*, really wanted to smoke, especially when folk have lit up around me...

Still... doing well, IMO...

PT

you should have said on Sunday....

Originally posted by KookyKoo


Going out this weekend though; for me, a cigarette has always gone perfectly with a drink. So I am psyching myself up for it to be very difficult...


Well good luck with it, I used to think that way on half hearted previous attempts. My word of advice to you would be to stop thinking that way. If you convince yourself how hard it will be then it will be!
I really don't think about it anymore, I actually think to myself how easy it has been, and it really has!

Good luck though and be strong.

Originally posted by Lestat
Foxx - I have to admit, I've had 3 since I said I'd stop!!! :( but it wasn't the 3 in the pack - It was on a night out. I had 1 in the past 4 days so far. . . . . :|

Im going to try not to have one at work today.:help:

Keep us posted on how you're doing mate.

The way I think about it now if I ever get an urge, is that I have now removed the nicotine (the addictive bit) from my body. Why the hell would I want to put the drug back into my body? Then go through withdrawal again? I don't, therefore when I'm out I "Just say no"!! Coming up for 3 months and not had a single drag.

Don't worry though mate, you'll do it when you want to and don't let anyone lecture you.

Originally posted by robbie
you should have said on Sunday....

why? we were sitting in a pub.. in a smoking area....

you are a smoker, we were in the smoking area, it's your choice to smoke, so I have to bite the bullet...

I don't have a problem as such with other folks' choice to smoke or not. (I would really only object if we were eating and a cig was lit... )

my problem is resisting the urge to smoke, for myself... no one else can give up for me...

PT

Originally posted by Plain Talker
why? we were sitting in a pub.. in a smoking area....

you are a smoker, we were in the smoking area, it's your choice to smoke, so I have to bite the bullet...

I don't have a problem as such with other folks' choice to smoke or not. (I would really only object if we were eating and a cig was lit... )

my problem is resisting the urge to smoke, for myself... no one else can give up for me...

PT

:clap: you're doing good...keep it up.

I like your attitude, I am trying to be the same. I go to a pub, I accept people will smoke around me. It's like facing your fears, and if you can sit with people smoking around you and not have one, then you've cracked it. It's a bit like not having cakes and sweets at work when they are free and everyone's eating them, but I'm on a diet!!!
What I don't want to become, is an annoying ex-smoker who is more anti-smoking than a non-smoker!!

hpw we all doing??? me and lee1979 have been quit a few weeks now and we have cracked it- have been out on the **** without having one a few times- really enjoing not smoking at the minute- saving money and feeling alot better in ourselves!!!

I smoked 20-30 a day for over 30 years. Stopped 10 years ago after one visit to a hypnotherapist. Had no withdrawal symptoms and never craved another cig. I really hate the smell of stale smoke now (what did my house smell like!)

Good luck to anyone trying to give up - one of the best things I've done, for health, social and financial reasons.

Why you find it hard to give up on smoking, is because you've been programmed to believe its hard to give up, by media, companies which provide giving up kits and goverments.

Take a look into "Neuro-Linguistic Programming" you may learn more. Addiction is all in the head, somthings like "Heroin" do have a stronger physical reliance, but mosy other substances are minimal.