What are your smoking triggers? Certain feelings, places or situations can trigger cravings for a cigarette, so understanding why they’re happening can give you the power to resist them. Here are some common triggers and how you can help manage them.
Alcohol
For some people, alcohol both triggers cravings and reduces their ability to resist them. When you’ve had a drink, you’re much more likely to think it’s a good idea to light up, and a lot less likely to listen to the little voice in your head that reminds you why you quit.
If you can, try to avoid alcohol or drink less at the beginning of your quit attempt to manage cravings, which can be particularly intense when you first give up. When you’re socialising, do all you can to resist joining friends who smoke outside or in smoking areas.
Stress
Stress is an inevitable part of life. You might feel that smoking is a good way to cope with stress, but discovering healthy ways to manage stress will help you remain smoke free.
A few ways of managing stress include talking to friends and family, learning how to manage your time better and remembering to take time for yourself. Find more ways to combat stress with our stress busting tips.
Your morning routine
We often hear that it’s difficult to resist having a cigarette when it’s just something you do as part of your everyday life. Smoking is often associated with doing other daily activities, like having a morning coffee. If you’re used to lighting up after pouring yourself a coffee, your craving will kick in as soon as you fill up the kettle, and you’ll probably find it hard to resist.
One way of beating this trigger is to change your routine. Exercise is a great way to start the day and will distract you from smoking. Pour that coffee into a travel mug and go for a walk.
Socialising
Tell your friends and family you’re quitting. If they’re in the loop, they can support you by not smoking around you or offering you cigarettes.
Try to avoid smoking environments like the smoking area in social venues and at work. If you usually go outside for a cigarette break, go for a wander around the block or stay indoors to avoid being tempted.
Smoking when bored
Some people smoke to relieve feelings of boredom. If this rings true, keep your brain stimulated with activities like reading or solving a puzzle. Keeping your hands busy will also help to manage your cravings, so keep a stress ball or a fidget toy around to play with the next time you get the urge to smoke.
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