Slip-ups and recovery
Slip-ups are common – but they’re not a reason to start smoking again. If you have a cigarette, you can learn from the experience. Don’t use your energy on self-blame. Think how you can improve your quit plan and use new strategies. Remember why you quit, and get back on track.
Some tips for if you slip-up
- Commit to not smoking for the next 24 hours, make a plan.
- Use nicotine replacement products to ease cravings.
- Change your habits and find new ways to enjoy yourself.
- Use techniques to manage stress, and be kind to yourself.
- Avoid alcohol.
- See yourself as a non-smoker.
- If you have friends that smoke, let them know that you really need their support at this time. Ask them to not offer you cigarettes.
- Throw out any cigarettes, even if you just bought them.
- Know that ‘just one’ cigarette can lead to a life-time of smoking, and don’t make excuses to smoke again.
- Call Quitline on 13 7848 for support.
If you do start again
You may be disappointed in yourself, but you’re the same, strong person that decided to quit. And you can do it again. So don’t feel discouraged. Next time will be different. Make a plan now to quit again.
Kick-off your quit journey on Quit HQ
Jump on to the My quit journey dashboard to kick-off your quit journey.