Whether it is cigarettes, sugar or another habit you are trying to give up, the first step is realising this is something that’s not good for you and taking some action to eliminate it from your life.
Each person is different as is each individual’s symptoms and the good news is most withdrawal symptoms return to normal within one month of giving up.
One of the main things to be prepared for is mood swings as our body adjusts to the withdrawal. Things that don’t normally make you irritable now will easily. Remember, these are just temporary and will get easier after the first four weeks. Here are some tips to help you deal with your craving.
- Delay unless the urge passes, this will normally take up to about 5 minutes
- Focus on something else as soon as that craving kicks in
- Drink a cold glass of water
- Take some deep breaths for up to 60 seconds
When you are feeling like it’s all too much and not worth the hassle, remind yourself that giving up is the most important thing you can do for your health.
Here are some coping techniques;
- Remind yourself that the feeling is temporary; it will go away
- Do something that makes you feel good
- Congratulate yourself at the end of each day