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Dealing With Slips
For most people, quitting is only half the battle. The other half is staying quit. If you do have a cigarette after you quit, don’t be too hard on yourself. It happens. A slip is not a failure, but an important part of the learning and quitting process. Most smokers try to quit several times before succeeding and the chance of success increases every time you try.

When you slip though, it’s important to get back on track immediately. When people slip up, it's usually within the first three months after quitting, so here are some strategies you can try to get back on track:

  • Recognize that you have had a slip or a small setback.  This doesn’t mean you are a smoker again.
  • Don't be too hard on yourself. One slip doesn't make you a failure, but it’s important to get back on track immediately. Your goal is no smoking - not even one puff.
  • Identify the trigger: Exactly what was it that prompted you to smoke? Once you know your trigger, you can make a plan for how you will cope with it when it comes up again.
  • Learn from this experience. What have you done in the past that worked for you?
  • Remember the coping skills discussed in manage your cravings. You are more likely to be successful if you change your behaviours and learn new skills to deal with the cravings and risky situations.
  • Ask for help. Call your friends and family and ask for their support. Call AlbertaQuits Helpline if you haven’t already done so.
  • Consider using stop smoking medications to  help reduce the cravings.