You're bringing back memories I had nearly forgotten. When I was younger in my quit I had terrible depression and anxiety. I was going through a vicious divorce with ruthless opponents and a worthless, incredibly expensive attorney; I never knew what was causing my depression and anxiety: the divorce, quitting smoking, or both. Regardless, I swear I felt physical symptoms: a sensation in my chest that I can't quit describe.
Anyway, to answer your question ... I slept a lot. When I couldn't sleep, I stayed as busy as I could: cleaning, organizing, gardening, anything that consumed lots of time, wasn't stressful, and kept my mind occupied. Had I not had more of that to do than I had time to complete it, I would have worked puzzles, built models, or learned a new skill such as carpentry or crochet. Tjandj's painting is a similar outlet. In fact, blogging and commenting here is a great, time consuming diversion. Others find exercise helpful, which I'm sure it is, if only I could get excited about it.
When you start to see positive results from your activity, i.e. a well manicured yard, a clean house, a beautiful painting, a toned body or happy Ex friends, it's hard not to feel better about yourself. The positive change around you and the positive effects of quitting smoking: improved self-esteem that flows naturally from self-discipline, improved breathing, more time, money, sex, (okay, well not sex,) and so much more will eventually lift you out of the doom and gloom in which you currently find yourself.
It is inevitable. You simply must stick with it. You CAN. It's only a question of whether you WILL.
I did. I think you will too.
.png "Sootie"){kind=avatar}
