Quitting Smoking: Preventing Slips Or Relapses

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Introduction

It is hard to quit smoking. The temptation can be very strong. Here you will find strategies to avoid slip-ups as well as a full-blown relapse. This information also applies if you use spit tobacco products, such as chew or snuff.

Key points

• Most slips happen during the first week after a person quits smoking. A slip does not mean that you will start smoking regularly again (relapse).
• Avoiding a slip-up is best. But if you do slip, it’s important to respond to it carefully so you don't relapse.
• If you do relapse, think about what you can learn from it and what you should do the next time you quit.
• If you slip or relapse, think about using medicines or some kind of nicotine replacement. You might also find it helpful to take part in a quit-smoking program or to talk to a counselor trained to help people quit smoking.
• People who relapse after 6 weeks of not smoking usually don't do it because of nicotine withdrawal. Instead, they relapse because they find themselves in situations that make them want a cigarette. Learn to recognize when you might slip or relapse, and plan ahead to cope with those situations.

 What is a slip? What is a relapse?

 Why is it important to deal with slips quickly?

 How can you deal with and avoid slips and relapse?

 Where to go from here

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Last updated:	March 27, 2008
Author:	Merrill Hayden
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, John Hughes, MD - Psychiatry
Editors:	Katy E. Magee, MA, Michele Cronen