Smoking Cessation Continues….Day Twenty
It’s been nearly three weeks since I’ve smoked a cigarette and although I’m still dealing with cravings and urges to smoke, I haven’t given into those and remain smoke-free.
My last cigarette was on Monday, July 18th at 5:05 a.m. I’ve been using nicotine lozenges to replace some of the nicotine I was taking into my system and will have an ultimate goal to not use those as well. But first things first….
I think a part of the success I’ve experienced is the fact that I’m also on a new medication for my ADD. I started taking it on July 13th and it has helped curb some of the anxious thoughts that lead me to smoke nearly a pack a day. While I still have cravings and have contemplated buying a pack of cigarettes, I haven’t given myself permission to do so.
My breathing has notably improved and I notice on especially warm days, I don’t struggle as much. I’m not around anyone who smokes on a daily basis and that has helped as well.
I have a support group to help with my continued recovery. Most noticeably, my wife Lisa, who has never been in judgment of my smoking habit, but has been my biggest supporter. I also have a group of friends who are former smokers and they have been sharing some of their experience, strength, and hope.
Another big key, at least for me, has been the “QuitNow” app that I’ve downloaded on my phone. It helps me keep track of my time away from smoking and that’s great motivation.
Today’s numbers from the app: 19 days, 11 hours smoke-free – 389 cigarettes avoided – $113 saved from not purchasing cigarettes. It also has a chat feature that allows me to share and hear from others who are attempting to quit smoking.
It’s still one day at a time…this much I know. I’m so very grateful that I’ve been able to stop for the time I have and am looking forward to many more smoke-free days ahead.
David Lee
David Lee 