Forty years a non-smoker
After several attempts, I finally quit in 1978. I was seriously addicted but eventually determined to stay off nicotine. My successful method was initially to cut down by one cigarette every day but towards the end it was more like every two or three days. My withdrawal symptoms were very difficult - anxiety, bad temper, physical longing, even hallucinations. I became quite compulsive about cutting down and when I was down to zero smokes per day, the symptoms continued, gradually becoming more manageable over the next year or so. Today, at the age of 74, I am incredibly glad that I did it all those years ago. However, I have to tell you that there have been times, for example when my wife died, when I really did feel like a smoke and resisted. You can do it, too!
Hi Jolyon. Enjoyed reading your post. So why after 40 years are you subscribing to this site other than to remind us of that fine line between being someone who has ceased smoking as opposed to how easily one can simply pick up where one left off. So amazing to have a story like yours. And a reminder that life's stresses cannot be alleviated by smoking. No amount of smoke will help. More likely, will hinder getting over any stressful situation. So glad you have taken the time to remind us, once a smoker, always a smoker. Some of us choose not to smoke and must not think for a moment we are non smokers. We know that because you never hear a non smoker (someone who has never smoked) say that they would like to light up when they are in celebratory mood or suffering some anxiety or stress. Jolyon, you are indeed an inspiration.
Hi Jolyon.
Thanks for coming on and giving inspiration to others. A reminder that one slip can undo all the hard work we achieve. You instill hope that we too can get over a stressful period, so sorry about your loss. You have incredible willpower. 40 years ago you did not have sites like this to learn coping methods, have support and certainly did know then what we know now about nicotine and how it alters our minds and puts fear in our minds, and a tug of war within our head. I certainly hope you don't get cravings still???? Please read my posts if you do. I really hope they help to inform you and others and help them to beat the cravings.