hi Ashlea,
i just read your comment. YOU can do this. i quit 18 days ago. here's a couple of thoughts...i am using the patch too. i'm on the second step now. it has helped me to initially get off the habit of the holding, lighting, smoking part. i also chew nicorette gum when i get a bad craving. i don't think i could have quit without them. however, i will need to cut those out eventually. you mentioned about going back to work. the first time i drove my car, the first day after work, and other "firsts" were hard for me. someone here told me that "firsts" are triggers, because that's when we lit up. be prepared with mints, gum, anything, to wait out the urge. deep breathing several times really helps.
and about the weight... everyone is different. some people eat so that's why they gain weight. i'm counting calories now so i haven't gained any weight. have a supply of good nutritious snacks and drink lots of water. i hope some of this helps you. you have support here. keep coming back.
