When you were smoking did you reach for a cigarette when you were stressed? If the answer is yes, you are likely to get cravings to smoke when you are facing tough situations.

Remember that having a cigarette is not going to make the problem go away.

Talking helps. You will:

• feel better
• feel less confused
• feel less alone.

Look after your body:

• get enough sleep
• eat sensibly and well
• exercise – this can be as simple as getting off the bus one stop early or using stairs instead of lifts
• manage your workload and time
• do things you enjoy.

Tip

Think about how your non-smoking friends and family handle stress. Talk to them about what they do when they’re stressed. Do you have new, relaxing activities that help you deal with stress?

Ring the Quitline on 0800 778 778 if you would like to read the booklet Stressed Out: Keeping it together under pressure. Download/View the Quitting Smoking and Stress Infosheet.