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LESSON #3: PREPARE FOR CRAVINGS VIDEO
For most people, smoking is both a repetitive behavior and a chemical addiction. You become accustomed to the routine of smoking—often engaged in a dozen or more times each day—and your body and brain become dependent on nicotine, the addictive chemical in tobacco and vaping products.
When you cut down or stop smoking or vaping, your body reacts to this change. This is called withdrawal, which can cause unpleasant symptoms. While these withdrawal symptoms peak in the first 72 hours and are strongest during the first two to four weeks after you quit, some can linger longer.
At Vincere, we know that each quit attempt may feel different, but there are some common cravings and withdrawal symptoms you can prepare for before you quit. Preparing your mind and body can help you to manage these obstacles and increase your chances of success.
Now that you’ve completed Lesson #2: Track Your Triggers, you’re learning more about the thoughts, feelings, and situations that affect your desire to smoke or vape. This awareness helps to reclaim your power over the automatic urge, and replace time spent on an unhealthy habit with new habits that support your well-being.
Read: 5 Myths about Cravings and 3 Ground Rules for Managing Them
Some of the most common tobacco and nicotine withdrawal symptoms are:
Nicotine is a powerful stimulant that reaches the brain in ten seconds, binds to nicotine receptors, and triggers temporary sensations of pleasure. After 30 to 60 minutes, the good feeling wears off, and the urge to smoke again begins to build.
The good news is: these feelings that you need to smoke or vape often last for just a few minutes. Try to think of a craving like a wave that you can ride. Each time you get through a craving without caving, you reinforce your confidence to do it again and again. Explore these resources too: