Past attempts have triggered severe depression
I've been fearful of trying to quit again due to previous attempts triggering severe depressive episodes but this time my reasons are more than just to save money, they're about improving my overall health and being able to run with my dog again. This time I have a quit smoking coach and support group and my overall attitude towards smoking has changed. I found that each time I worried about the depression coming back I had someone to talk to about it and I was able to get past that fear. Remembering my reasons for quitting also helped alleviate that fear and I have a much more positive attitude towards quitting this time, I'm much more confident that I can succeed.
Hey, Linley, welcome. Firstly, you can do this. Secondly, There are so many reasons to stop and the depression attached to stopping is part of the fear. This is normal, we have all been through the fear. Thirdly, a positive attitude is really important. Stay busy, have an alternative activity at the ready for those moments, this will distract from the cravings.
You've taken the first most difficult step and that is the decision to stop. That's a fantastic start. Keep posting on here, it will help with distraction.
Great to walk or run . I'm walking without a dog every day now. Still need a lot of healing I think, even after 100 days
sounds like you have a good set of plans in place with people to help and we need a good plan.
but yes its not text book it seems quitting and well I just wrote a couple of posts down below this one about spending like 2 weeks in bed I was catatonic and just grieving and depressed, and that may come and go to lesser degrees for me, but its part of the healing process and scary.
I will add this is just what has happened to me but I didn't die was it hard bet your ass it was hard, and in some respects I want this to be hard as I NEVER want to forget how hard quitting was/is as if I forget I might be in trouble.
so never think because its hard in places that that's not a good thing even if at the time it doesn't feel too flash, its those of us that have to work hard and are 100% committed to do what ever it takes to quit that stay quit.
just writing this I feel the sadness still in me and well we smoked for a reason not just because we thought it was kool.
like MC said still got some healing to do mentally, physically and spiritually.
my best advice is if you feel like having a good old cry then do that and if you feel like having a good giggle do that too, smoking took away in part our ability to feel, so quit smoking and we are going to feel more.
the good part is I will still be alive to have those feelings, cause if I kept smoking all bets are off.
good luck and write I know it helps me see my truth today.
IC
Hi Linely and welcome. It sounds like you are better planned this time and your head is in the right place. Do what you have to do and what is best for you. Small steps, one day at a time...you can do it! Good luck on your journey and keep us posted.
Thank you all for your comments and support, it's been very helpful in making it 21 days smoke free:) And to know That others have struggled with low mood and depression when quitting and that they've gotten through it has been a huge help to me.
I'm 21 days smoke free, now I've got the rest of my life to remain smoke free and am more confident than ever that I can and will do it.