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1. alikison

   

   15 posts
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   06 May 2018
   09 May 2018

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   Hello.  I started the patch May 5th, I'm still smoking, but only half as much, was at 12+ cigarettes, now at about 5 to 6.   Still have half a pack left in the house, having a hard time to just throw them out.   Also having a hard time getting to sleep.   I removed the patch before bed, but I'm still up, and I really want a smoke.  
2. brieffree

   

   1477 posts
   Registered:
   28 Nov 2017
   09 May 2018 in reply to alikison

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   alikison
   
   Hi there, I understand your tension to sleep, could be because you need to make a choice for good!. Quit for ones!
   
   Do not be afraid, just broke all smokes and damp all related to smoke.Start new life!
   
   Drink a lot water insted
   Distract yourself
   Discuss with some one about it
   
   You have a new energy, as soon as you reduce smoking or quit, your body start to clear up.
   
   Welcome to help line, please feel free to post how you feel!
   
   All the best, you can do this!
   
3. eagerquit

   

   415 posts
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   07 Mar 2018
   09 May 2018

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   Good Morning Alikison,
   
   Congratulations on your decision to quit smoking. The patch is an excellent way to go. I quit two months ago with NRT lozenges and gum then gradually weaned that down. When I felt the craving for a cigarette I popped a lozenge instead.
   
   Welcome to the Smokers Helpline forum. You will find the suggestions and success stories here inspirational!
   
   Eagerquit
   
   
4. lillian, quit coach

   

   216 posts
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   28 Nov 2017
   10 May 2018

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   hi!
   
   Alikison, welcome to our community.
   The members are here to help and rooting for you!
   Keep us posted, hope the night got better,
   Lillian
   
5. alikison

   

   15 posts
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   06 May 2018
   11 May 2018

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   Thank you for the welcome and the encouragement.   I went 1 day, yesterday with no smoking, didn't feel too bad.   I'm eating an apple at work, when I usually go for a smoke.  I slipped up today.   I had one, but it felt like I only smoked about half, felt like I was just holding onto it mostly.  A sign perhaps I didn't really want it?  Still not getting to any bed earlier, and sleeping in.   I work evenings 5:30 pm to 10:30 pm.  Monday to Friday.  I've been coming home and eating a whole bag of Doritos and Chocolate.   I know that has to stop.   Staying up to 4 am cruising Facebook.  or watching Frankie and Grace.   I did buy some more veggies today, and ingredients for a dip I like.   Just have to get onto making it.  
6. brieffree

   

   1477 posts
   Registered:
   28 Nov 2017
   11 May 2018 in reply to alikison

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   alikison
   
   Super that you are trying, is good idea if you can drink a glass of water instead when you sleep, and hold it for few minutes. It will go away!
   
7. linda, quit coach

   

   146 posts
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   28 Nov 2017
   11 May 2018

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   Hi alikison,
   
   Having a slip is quite common after a quit. It is a part of the quitting process and we usually see it as an important learning experience. It’s so great to hear that you worked through this and that you want to find a way to handle it. That's a good sign for eventual success. Don’t lose sight of your goal, even when you have a setback. Think of yourself as getting stronger, better and more experienced in the quitting process.
   
   Congratulations for all the hard work you’ve done! You can do this!
   

   Last modified on 15 May 2018 20:30 by linda, quit coach
8. treepeo

   

   832 posts
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   29 Nov 2017
   11 May 2018

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   Hi alikison,
   
   I had a hard time getting to sleep, too.  That seems to be a common withdrawal symptom.  But hang in there.  Your body and mind needs time to adjust to the new way of life you have chosen.  And you have made the right choice, never doubt that.  
   
   I love the fact that you reached for an apple instead of a smoke at work.  That is a HUGE improvement, and not an easy change to make, so good on you for doing it.  Yes, it shows you really do want to quit.  And way to go for buying more veggies.  Just take it one step at a time.  Don't try to push yourself into new things too hard.  Quitting smoking isn't easy.  Focus on that, and do your best, and you will probably surprise yourself.  You are stronger than you think.  You are doing great.  Keep it up, and stay in touch.  We are all here to help each other.  Believe in yourself.
9. nerak47

   

   48 posts
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   23 Jan 2018
   12 May 2018

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   Good morning alikison, 
   
   Good on you for the beginning of your non smoking journey! 
   Be gentle on yourself while you go through the process of stopping,  and that exactly what it is: a process. You have described cutting back and looking for alternatives and being aware - you will never be more aware of how much you smoked!  And you will not only know its time to full on quit,  you will FEEL it. And although nervous, you will just want to jump on the quit bandwagon and you will see,  day by day, you have stayed quit!  
   Just always be gentle and patient with your journey and yourself!  Just because we failed grade 12, doesn't mean we go back to kindergarten 
   
   nerak
10. alikison

    

    15 posts
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    06 May 2018
    14 May 2018 in reply to linda, quit coach

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    Actually it's more than a slip, I feel really I haven't quit yet.   I put the patch on May5th, but have smoked most days, except for one.   Although I am smoking half as much.    I've started trying to wash my face when I first get up/ shower, instead of going right for my breakfast, coffee and smoke (two cigs).    I've tried an e-cig before supper, and after supper, but I keep breaking down for one before I leave for work, and while at work (I did try eating an apple the one day in place of one smoke break there, seemed to work.)    Also I am still not getting to bed until late, and sleeping late, but this was a habit before I put the patch on, but now I am finding I am having crazy intense dreams just a few hours after I fall asleep, and I wake up, have to try and calm myself, and go back to sleep.   I have also been experiencing feeling of depression, and just break down and go and have  smoke.   
11. alikison

    

    15 posts
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    06 May 2018
    14 May 2018

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    Another thing, while at work I am starting to get annoyed with my coworker/cleaning partner.   I've told him I'm trying to quit and using the patch, and I think he can sense a change in me, like when I'm struggling.  He seems to be making more light conversation and jokes.   He's an older guy.    I've said some nasty things in my head, and am just like whoa, I guess I'm cranky.   I've tried to remind myself he means well, and isn't trying to bug me, but cheer me up.   But I've almost felt like asking him if that's what he's trying to do, to stop, he isn't responsible for keeping me in my happy place.   Or maybe I should just suck it up as I'm just feeling agitated.    I don't want to say something to him, and upset him or have him take it the wrong way, he has been very good to me, he is a good person.    He also asks me every few days how the smoking thing is going, and sometimes I just wish he wouldn't, or that I should've never told him in the first place.    I don't know, probably making mountains out of mole hills.    
12. alikison

    

    15 posts
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    06 May 2018
    14 May 2018

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    As I mentioned I'm using the Nicorette Patch Step #2, as I only smoked about 10 to 12 cigs a day.  But I'm wondering if I need something more to get me through the difficult times, or cravings.   What would you suggest?   Gum, lozenge, mist.   Or to focus on the 4 D's more, which I haven't actually tried, well maybe here and there.
13. treepeo

    

    832 posts
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    29 Nov 2017
    14 May 2018

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    Hi alikison,
    
    I found the 4 Ds really helpful, especially delay.  When I had a craving, I would wait 10 minutes, because anyone can wait 10 minutes.  And then I would wait another 10 minutes, and so on, until the craving passed.  I'm not gonna lie, it wasn't always easy to do that.  In fact, sometimes it was extremely difficult.  But while I delayed, I also tried to distract myself, and that helped, too.
    
    The process of quitting is very difficult.  It can make us cranky, irritable, and anxious.  So I understand what you are going through with your co-worker.  But it does sound like he truly is just trying to be helpful and kind.  So try to take his comments in stride.  When you find yourself getting annoyed, try some deep breathing.  If nothing else, it will give you something to focus on.
    
    I know this whole thing is rough, alikison.  But hang in there.  You can do this, and it will be worth it.  Just take it one step at a time.
    
14. brieffree

    

    1477 posts
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    28 Nov 2017
    14 May 2018

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    Hi Alikison
    
    Why don't you try the Mist, it works to me!
    But you do not have to smoke!
    
    All the best
    
15. emily, quit coach

    

    247 posts
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    28 Nov 2017
    15 May 2018

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    Hi alikison,
    
    A lot of what you're describing are common withdrawal symptoms while cutting down/quitting. I know they are uncomfortable but with time, they will pass.
    
    It sounds like you've already made some big changes to your smoking with reducing and you have thought of some good strategies to get through the cravings. If you feel that the patch just isn't enough and strong urges are still coming through you can always speak with your doctor or pharmacist about combining another product with it. The gum, lozenge, or mist will all deliver nicotine into your body, just in different ways. So what you decide to use really depends on you. Would it be helpful to chew gum or suck on a lozenge or are you looking for something a bit quicker like the mist.
    
    Let us know how you are doing.
    Emily
16. kiltman

    

    5 posts
    Registered:
    15 May 2018
    15 May 2018

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    Decided April thirtieth to guit smoking . have lost most of the circulation in my lower legs due to smoking hoping that quoting will give me more use of my legs back
17. iisimmonsj

    

    1 posts
    Registered:
    15 May 2018
    15 May 2018 in reply to alikison

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    I started the patch and gum late last month. I’ve decreased my smoking so much as well. I have pride in that, so should u. I wanna quit so much, and it’s difficult. Not giving up is important for I to quit. All the best of luck to you
18. alikison

    

    15 posts
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    06 May 2018
    18 May 2018

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    Really struggling today, I'm tired, anxious, grumpy, almost feeling depressed.   I know I have some PMS going on.   Sorry if that's too much info.    Still have the patch on, tried one NRT gum today, but have still smoked about 4 cigarettes today, averaging about 6.   I'm also finding I'm bloated, burping more, and constipated.   Worried I'm gonna just smoke more today, and putting myself at risk for nicotine overdose.   I'm thinking maybe I'm just not ready.   Sucks because I need to do this.   Trying to get ready for work, but really I just wanna go to bed.  I know I'll probably feel a bit better at work cause it's some distraction, but it's also where I go for smoke breaks.  Is this just a bump in the road kind of day?  :(
19. lillian, quit coach

    

    216 posts
    Registered:
    28 Nov 2017
    18 May 2018 in reply to alikison

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    hi alikison,
    
    You've been working so hard. I would say it is a sign of someone who is very ready.
    
    I would also agree that it is a bump in the road. 
    There are smooth parts just a bit further along.
    
    Keep on using those 4 D's, (in particular drinking water to help with the discomfort) 
    
    Let us know how you feel soon.
    Lillian
    

    Last modified on 18 May 2018 21:39 by lillian, quit coach
20. treepeo

    

    832 posts
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    29 Nov 2017
    18 May 2018

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    Hi alikison,
    
    It's hard enough to cut down and/or to quit at the best of times.  It is way worse when you are feeling lousy.  The symptoms you describe resonate with me.  I am past that point, but I remember vividly what it's like to have PMS and all of that.  So I feel your pain.
    
    Life is always going to throw us curveballs.  What is important is how we are going to handle them.  Are we going to do the same old, same old?  Or are we going to change our lives?
    
    Quitting smoking is a process.  None of us know how to do it.  We have to figure it out as we go along.  Try to hang in there.  You are cutting back, which is very difficult to do.  Way to go.  It shows you are committed and that ultimately, you really want to quit for good.  So keep it going.  You will have good days and bad.  You will have moments when you feel great, and moments when you wonder what the heck you are doing.  But all of that is normal.  
    
    Just be good to yourself, and know that you are working towards a goal that will ultimately change your life for the better.  It's not easy, but it truly is worth it.  Stick with it.  You are worth it.
    
21. alikison

    

    15 posts
    Registered:
    06 May 2018
    24 May 2018

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    Feeling really frustrated tonight, actually angry.    I smoked more today about 7 to 8 cigarettes, was down to 6.  The second one, I was kind of like I don't even want this, but smoked it anyway, and then the third.   Still have the patch on, but really what's the point if I'm smoking more.   Am I going to be in super bad shape if I take the patch off?    I know I really don't have enough going on during the day to distract me, busy days seem easier.   I work evenings.   There is only so much, walking, and cleaning you can do.   I know I need to purge or sort through a bunch of clothes and junk etc.   But feel like it's just going to frustrate me, I've gained weight already eating junk.  Kind of feel like I don't have a life, smoke, eat, sleep, work.   And feeling kind of isolated, as my neighbours smoke, one is trying to quit and seems to be doing well.   Well she slipped tonight again, but she seems to be able to stop again.   But I know she has lots to distract her, cooking, and projects, or doing her nails, or hair, or make-up etc.  I am grateful I get to hang out with family on the weekend, and that I go to work weekday evenings.   Going to do some volunteer thing tomorrow with my sister, perhaps it will be a better day.   Also I've heard if you can avoid that first smoke of the day, it makes it easier, not sure if it's  true.   I did have that one day no smokes, and I survived, but was anxious all day.   Anyway I'm just going in circles now.   So I'll leave it at that.
22. alikison

    

    15 posts
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    06 May 2018
    24 May 2018

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    How do people keep track of the things or topics they've commented under?   There are so many discussions to read or comment on, so just wondered how people keep track?     Like I just commented about how slow the site is, under a topic heading and don't know how to find it again for a response.   And do I keep sharing under my own post for support, or should I be posting under other posts?   Advice is appreciated.
23. eagerquit

    

    415 posts
    Registered:
    07 Mar 2018
    24 May 2018

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    Hi Alikison,
    
    Good to see you are continuing your quit. Congratulations on staying with your smoke free plan. You will succeed! I see you have also posted your concern about the slowness of this site under "Suggestions and Technical Issues" which is the right place. I also find navigation is slow but it looks like the technician is aware of that issue.  
    
    There is no need to stay in your original thread. I like to post under whichever of the forum categories is closest to my concern, such as "Cravings" or "My Journey". Within the category hit "New Thread" at the top to start a new line of thought for support. The quit coaches and other site users read and respond to the new threads.
    
    I hope this helps.
    
    Eagerquit
    
    
    

    Last modified on 24 May 2018 08:03 by eagerquit
24. lillian, quit coach

    

    216 posts
    Registered:
    28 Nov 2017
    24 May 2018

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    Hi alikison,
    
    There really is no wrong in where you post but I do agree with eagerquit, it is nice to post under whichever of the forum categories applies. Where ever you post, the members have a way of finding posts and responding albeit slowly and in time given the nature of the site right now..
    
    There are  a few key words listed just under the forums in blue, that ndicate newest post, most recently replied and those areas might make it easier to keep track of posts too for you.
    
    Thanks for bringing this forward as I am sure others were wondering about it as well.
    Lillian
    

    Last modified on 24 May 2018 11:20 by lillian, quit coach
25. alikison

    

    15 posts
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    06 May 2018
    05 Jun 2018

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    So I'm on Day 5, no cigarettes, using the Gum or Lozenges seems to be helping.   Still getting some anxious feelings.   This weekend will be going into week 6 on the Step 2 Patch.   A  phone quit coach suggested I may need keep on it for a few more weeks, supposed to go to Step 3 Patch weekend after (week 7).   Not sure what to do?   What can I expect to happen when go to Step 3 Patch?   
26. brieffree

    

    1477 posts
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    28 Nov 2017
    05 Jun 2018

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    Dear alikison
    
    Congrats in 5 Smokes free day's is amassing, is up to you how you feel?
    I am using the gum and the spray even do I quit long ago!
    You are doing great as you are, just focus in your quit and enjoy to be a Non Smoker!
    
27. treepeo

    

    832 posts
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    29 Nov 2017
    05 Jun 2018

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    Hi Alikison,
    
    WooHoo, congratulations on your five smoke free days!  Good for you!  I know how much you have struggled in the past, and I know you are still having issues, so you should feel really proud of what you have accomplished.
    
    From what I have read on the forums here from people on the patch, I would suggest that if you are still feeling anxious and a bit unsteady in your quit, that you take the advice you were given and stay on the patch you are on for at least a few more weeks.  Lots of people do that and it seems it was really the right decision for them to make.  You will probably know in your heart when you are ready to step it down a bit.  There is no rush, and we all need different kinds of help.  The most important thing is that you stick to NOPE every day, being Not One Puff Ever.  There is no need to put extra pressure on yourself.  Why not stick to what you are doing until you feel a little stronger?
    
    I am so happy to hear that you are making such great progress, alikison.  You can do this.  Believe in yourself.  Your body will thank you for it!
    
28. eagerquit

    

    415 posts
    Registered:
    07 Mar 2018
    06 Jun 2018

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    Hi Alikison,
    
    Congratulations on five smoke free days! I too have found the gum and lozenges help a lot. I don't have experience with the patch so I will leave that area to the others who have.
    
    Good job and pat yourself on the back!
    
    Eagerquit
    
    
29. susanyw

    

    22 posts
    Registered:
    06 Jun 2018
    06 Jun 2018

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    New to group, had my last cigarette about 7:00 pm last night, slapped on a patch this morning. 
    I am having surgery in Sept and in order for my bones to heal I simply cannot smoke any-more. 
    Even with the patch it's difficult, not my first time at this but hopefully my last.
    
30. brieffree

    

    1477 posts
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    28 Nov 2017
    06 Jun 2018

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    Hi Susan
    
    Welcome back, be strong, distract your self and enjoy to be free!
    The Gum really helps me!
    Just be confident and focus in your quit!
    We will waiting to hear about you!
    
    All the best, you can do this!