Don't Turn to Cigarettes!

It's normal to feel sad for a period of time after you first quit smoking. Many people have a strong urge to smoke when they feel sad or depressed, but remember that if you give in to your craving for a cigarette, you may feel even sadder that you didn't stick with your decision to quit.

What to Do:

• Identify your specific feelings at the time that you seem to be depressed. Are you actually feeling tired, lonely, bored, or hungry? Focus on and address these specific needs.
• Add up how much money you have saved already by not purchasing cigarettes, and imagine (in detail) how you will spend your savings in six months.
• Call a friend and plan to have lunch, or go to a movie, a concert, or another pleasurable event.
• Make a list of things that are upsetting to you and write down solutions for them.
• Keep positive about changes in your life.
• Increase physical activity. This will help improve your mood and lift your depression.
• Focus on your strengths.
• Plan your next vacation or fun activity.
• Try deep-breathing exercises.
• Draw up a list of your short- and long-term personal goals.
• Think of how healthy you'll feel when you are totally free of smoking.
• If depression continues for more than a month, see your doctor.