Smoking is addictive, and the road to quitting is not easy. Some addicts try to stop smoking cold turkey, and this does not make it any easier. Cigarettes contain addictive substances, such as nicotine, which after prolonged periods of smoking addiction, make the body dependent on them. Quitting cold turkey without nicotine replacement drugs can be hard to do, and in case you are going to do it, You need adequate preparation to prevent relapse or withdrawal. So, how hard is it to stop smoking cold turkey? Quite hard.
Quitting smoking cold turkey can be hard. What really makes it that hard?
Withdrawal Symptoms are Intense
Quitting smoking cold turkey will cause withdrawal symptoms. Without nicotine replacement drugs to help you cope, your body will experience withdrawal. Nicotine is highly addictive, and rivals alcohol, cocaine and heroin in addictiveness. Quitting cold turkey will cause feelings of nausea, fatigue, anxiety, depression, and headaches. This is the body reacting to nicotine withdrawal. These effects last up to two weeks, and it is advisable to see a doctor if the symptoms persist after the couple weeks are over.
Cigarette Addiction is Psychological
Cigarette smoking is more than a physical thing. It is linked to psychology in that most smokers engage in smoking to relieve stress, a process called self-medication. Smokers often deal with stress and pressure on their lives through smoking. Quitting cold turkey can be tough as withdrawal comes with feelings of depression, which can easily lead to a relapse.
How do You Stop Smoking Cold Turkey Successfully?
Although quitting smoking cold turkey is tough, it is possible to do stop with some preparation and help. Below are tips that will aid you to quit smoking cold turkey successfully:
Prepare in Advance
Change your routine
Keep yourself busy
Avoid alcohol and coffee
Drink water
Seek inspiration
Use nicotine replacement drugs or gum
Seek professional help or counsel
Join a support group
Prepare in Advance
It is important to prepare in advance and plan out your schedule when deciding to stop smoking cold turkey. Rid off any items that predispose you to smoke, and inform your friends and family of your decision. They might be the support you need. Set a date forehand and prepare mentally for the day.
Change Your Routine
Smoking is psychological, and quitting requires you to change and tune-up some things. Stop hanging out with friends that make you smoke. Avoid instances that stress you out, and focus on supportive friends and family.
Keep Yourself Busy
Getting busy avoids instances that predispose you to smoke. Keep yourself occupied and keep your mouth busy with a gum or cinnamon stick to fight the urge to light a pipe.
Avoid Coffee or Alcohol
These two drinks are often associated with smoking, and avoiding them could help you stop smoking cold turkey. Drink water instead. Water keeps you hydrated and also occupies your mind and keeps you off cigarettes.
Seek Support
Join a support group or seek professional help. Help and support will help you stick to your decision.
Although this mode of quitting is hard and almost impossible for heavy smokers, it is advantageous as it is a faster method of quitting smoking than professional help quitting. Less work and time are used, and it saves money for those who may be disadvantaged financially to afford sessions.
o help you cope, your body will experience withdrawal. Nicotine is highly addictive, and rivals alcohol, cocaine and heroin in addictiveness. Quitting cold turkey will cause feelings of nausea, fatigue, anxiety, depression, and headaches. This is the body reacting to nicotine withdrawal. These effects last up to two weeks, and it is advisable to see a doctor if the symptoms persist after the couple weeks are over.
