Slips & RelapseDon't give up, keep trying
Slip
Slips occur when you have one cigarette or “small” amounts of smoking, during your quit process. Slips are often part of the quit process.If you slip, it’s OK. Remember, you can do this. Like mistakes, slips can be learning tools. You can turn a slip into something positive.
VS.
Relapse
The longer you delay addressing a slip the more likely it can become a relapse.Relapse occurs when you have gone back to smoking close to the amount you were smoking before you quit. What was working for you to stay smoke–free? What caused you to slip?
What can you do differently?
Stop–smoking medications
These can really help to take the edge off – be sure you are using them correctly and are using enough.More about medications
Plan for triggers and cravings
Old routines can trigger cravings. Change your daily routines and try to head off triggers.Avoid alcohol
Cut back or avoid alcohol, at least until you become a confident nonsmoker. Why? Alcohol can make you more prone to go back to smoking.Reasons to quit
Don’t lose sight of why you wanted to quit in the first place and all the benefits that come with it.Reward yourself
Quitting smoking is hard – remember to reward yourself. You deserve it!Help to quit
Free, confidential, evidence-based support to quit smoking, vaping, or tobacco for New Yorkers.Don’t be so hard on yourself! The most important thing is to learn from your experience – get back on track, and keep trying.
Last updated 2/10/2022 10:25 AM
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