Tips for staying smoke-free
Staying smoke-free is a long-term commitment. If you slip, this doesn't mean that you will return to smoking regularly. Use it as an opportunity to reset and regain control.
- Regain control of the situation
- Never test yourself. Stop smoking immediately.
- If you bought cigarettes, throw them out.
- Remove all lighters and ashtrays from your smoke-free space.
- Be kind to yourself
- Remind yourself how far you have come, not how far you have to go.
- Encourage yourself not to give up.
- Take action
- Change the feeling in your mouth - chew gum, drink water, brush your teeth.
- Get support. Talk to a friend, family member, or a trained quit coach.
So how is relapse different?
A relapse means you have gone back to smoking. This can be frustrating, especially if you have been smoke-free for a while. Don't give up! Instead, think about it as a learning experience. When you're ready, set a new quit date and talk to your healthcare provider to help you get back on track.
For more information or to talk with a trained quit coach, connect with your local quit smoking line at gosmokefree.gc.ca/quit or toll-free at 1-866-366-3667.