Recovery from addiction can be difficult. Relapse and struggle are frequently part of the process. People who are more addicted can have a very challenging time becoming tobacco free despite a strong desire to stop and a great deal of effort expended trying to stop. We try to encourage those folks to stop being hard on themselves and stop unfairly comparing self to others. Instead of blaming yourself, use every tool available to help you stop smoking.
One phrase or tool you might find useful is to ‘don’t say anything to yourself that you would not say to a good friend’. Positive and supportive ‘self-talk’ conserves the energy wasted through self-blame, and can provide a strong and gentle foundation to manage the difficult challenges in ‘re-learning’ life without tobacco. Quitting can be difficult. Provide yourself with understanding and do the planning needed to make this important change happen.
One of the things I really love about the EX Community is the empathic way in which people are accepted and encouraged. Good positive support helps to build success. Understanding and care provide a net to bounce back from any relapse or set-back.
If you are struggling, don’t blame yourself. Be kind. If you’re struggling alone, take a risk. Share your struggles. A load shared is half a load. Give and get the support, care and encouragement that you deserve.
Michael V. Burke, Ed.D
Program Director and NDC Counselor/ CTTS