“I thought I had quit smoking, but……”

So you‘ve started smoking again - it’s not the end of the world! In fact relapse is a normal part of the quitting process. Maybe you:

• Stopped smoking only because someone else wanted you to?
• Were triggered by another smoker?
• Had a crisis in your life?
• Quit when the time wasn’t right?
• Stopped without knowing what it would feel like?
• Still think of yourself as a “smoker”?
• Thought your craving was a real need?
• Thought it would be okay to have just one?
• Stopped using your nicotine patches or gum too soon?

You will have your own reasons for relapse. It doesn’t mean “all is lost,” and that you might as well go on smoking.

You’ve stopped before - you can stop again. It may be hard work - but you have done other hard things before.

Remember - you don’t have to do it by yourself

Quitline Advisors understand that many people try to quit a number of times before they are successful. Call the Quitline 0800 778 778 for advice and support if you have relapsed. You can also ask for a copy of Relapse Matahoki - a small booklet written specially for people who have relapsed.