What a slip up is and how to deal with a slip up.
After choosing to quit you may find that you slip up.
A slip up is different to a total relapse. A slip up is when you smoke one or more cigarettes but go back to not smoking after.
Here are some tips for dealing a slip up:
Stop straight away
If you bought a pack, destroy the rest of it.
If someone shared a cigarette with you, explain that you're trying to quit and ask that they don't give you anymore.
Don't beat yourself up
Becoming stressed after a slip up can make it harder to stay on your quit journey. Be proud of what you have accomplished and remember that this is a normal part of the journey.
Remember your reasons
Remember why you want to quit smoking, write down your reasons and stick them somewhere where you'll see them frequently, such as on a mirror, computer screen or in your car.
Identify what caused the slip up
Understanding what caused the slip up can help you avoid that situation in the future. Are you smoking first thing in the morning without realising, when drinking alcohol or when you are bored?
Build new habits
Once you've identified what made you slip up, find new ways of resisting the craving in the future, such as having a new morning routine or limiting your alcohol consumption.