Recovering from a Relapse
It's a good idea to pack a first aid kit for a hike. If you trip and fall, you’ll have bandages to protect your scrapes so you can keep on going.
It’s a good idea to “pack” a first aid kit for quitting, too. If you slip up or relapse, you’ll have supplies to pick yourself up again.
Here’s what supplies go in your kit.
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A Strong Dose of Kindness
Don’t punish yourself! This is a process. Each time you try to quit, you learn more about yourself, your patterns, and your high-risk situations. The key is to use that information the next time.
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A Full Package of Commitment
Immediately commit again to being tobacco-free. No matter how much you may have smoked, vaped, dipped or chewed, make that commitment. Do it now. You’ve done it before and you can do it again!
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A Few Morsels of Motivation
Remember the reasons you decided to quit in the first place? Or the benefits you already started noticing? Keep those front and center. Think of them as your granola bars—tasty treats to keep you energized along the path.
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An Instruction Book
Review your quit plan. Adapt it based on your recent experiences. For example, switching or starting medication might help with the next phase of your journey.
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A Hiking Buddy
OK, this one’s a little bigger than a backpack. But it might just be the most valuable. Visit or post in the EX Community for support from other people who understand what you’re going through.
Now your bag is packed, and you’re ready to get back out there!
Lots of former smokers, vapers, and tobacco users find it helpful—even essential—to have a mantra to repeat along the way. Let’s get you yours.