stress and smoking
I am a smoker. i find that when I am stressed I crave a cigarette. Although smoking is not healthy, i cant imagine any thing healthy coming out of a streesful issue if i was not allowed to cool off with a smoke. LAUGH!!!
Larry, It sounds like you have found a healthier coping mechanism and that's great. Yes, there is certainly much more to smoking than the nicotine fix. Often times, people miss the social aspects of it as well.
Dr. Melissa Read
I used to smoke and feel there is more to it than just the nicotine fix. I currently use a non nicotine water vapor e-cig. I do not miss the nicotine but find that "inhaling" the water vapor provides the "relief" I was getting from smoking. Also, I work on not stressing over things I cannot do anything about.
Chris, Dipping tobacco is an unhealthy coping mechanism so I can understand how you are trying to stay away from it. Yes, there are other more healthy mechanisms like walking as you mention. Chewing gum in moderation may help with the habit you are trying to break. Hang in there, I know it's especially tough to resist relapsing in stressful times.
Dr. Melissa Read
I used to dip smokeless tobacco and when I am stressed I find my mind wandering back to those times that I dipped. Stress makes me feel that my resolve is weakening and I have to find ways to deal with that stress or I will relapse. One method I use to alleviate stress is do something I enjoy doing, like going for a walk (even if it is around campus).
Richard, That's an interesting approach. Sounds like you have adjusted your expectations down in terms of how your days will go. This way, you are not often disappointed and when your expectations are exceeded, it's a good day. Some would say your approach is not optimistic but others would say it's just realistic.
Dr. Melissa Read
I agree but I would really like to find something else that calmed my nerves. Just going somewhere quiet helps, just realizing that every day is not going to be good helps me cope also.
It may be a temporary fix but for some a Temporary fix is better than none.
Too funny, I understand the crave but isn't it true that after the smoke the issue is still there? Does it really help or pacifies the moment.
