Hello Its Charlie. Staying strong is not what is going to give you the best chance at quitting or staying quit--it is staying smart that will really help. Smart about nicotine addiction. Check out the resources on the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/resources-related-to-the-importance-of-being-smarter-than-nicotine-as-opposed-to-having-to-be-stronger/ that addresses this issue. For basic information that will help you go through the resources on the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/can-you-spare-about-an-hour-and-a-half-to-help-to-save-your-life/ If you have any specific questions or concerns regarding smoking or quitting issues please feel free to get back in touch. Joel
I had terrible withdrawal symptoms for more than 3 months when I quit smoking. I'd never go through this again so for this reason I'd never take another puff. I'm now quit for 15 months and I'm just now starting to feel the way I felt back when I was a never smoker. To anyone who's trying to quit I can say that if someone as hooked as me made it through then you can do it too. I was smoking 70 cigs a day and I'd wake in the middle of the night in order to smoke. So have faith people, listen to what mr. Spitzer says, and never take another puff.
+Nick Tamer While you may have had terrible symptoms for three months it was unlikely to have been "nicotine withdrawal" symptoms. Check out the videos "Going back to normal after quitting" th-cam.com/video/zUKBBcZ26BQ/w-d-xo.html and "Is this a symptom of quitting smoking?" Also I think you will appreciate the message in the video The advantage of having a difficult time when quitting smoking th-cam.com/video/45iUwpCjn3s/w-d-xo.html th-cam.com/video/Rw5jbjgRH7g/w-d-xo.html
+Joel Spitzer Thank you for your response. I don't thing there is a single one of your videos I haven't watch already at least once. I want to thank you again for all the support your videos gave me when I was trying to quit and also to wish you a great new year.
I stopped smoking last year, it took 10 months before my lungs felt tolerably ok, I had terrible withdrawal symptoms, couldn't sleep for a month And do you know what? I would do it TWICE MORE to be able to finally claim that I am a non-smoker, never been so proud in my life 😁
Congratulations on your quit Geogina. While it may have taken months for your lungs to feel better, that is not so much a function of prolonged withdrawal as much as a process of healing of nerve cells and other tissues in the lung. The pages whyquit.com/joels-videos/learning-how-to-inhale/, whyquit.com/joels-videos/cilia/, whyquit.com/joels-videos/why-many-people-cough-more-after-quitting/ and whyquit.com/joels-videos/see-how-smoking-destroys-the-lungs/ all touch on this issue. Also, as far as for not sleeping well in the beginning, that too is not so much withdrawal as it is your body adjusting to a new normal. See the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/going-back-to-normal-after-quitting/. The first article on that page addresses the sleep adjustment issue. Also, at this point in time be careful not to write off any current or future symptoms you may encounter to withdrawal or even to having recently quit smoking. The page whyquit.com/joels-videos/life-goes-on-without-smoking/ addresses this issue. Your feeling of being proud is totally warranted, as covered in the material on the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/be-proud-that-you-quit-smoking/. As far as it would be worth going through it all over again two or more times, yes quitting would be worth it, but never allow yourself to think in terms of if you go back you will simply quit again. See the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/if-i-go-back-to-smoking-ill-just-quit-again/ addressing this issue. Just know that you will never have to go back to smoking or go through quitting again if this time you continue to stick to a personal commitment to never take another puff. Joel
Anyone can quit if they want to bad enough!!! But, I’ve had severe depression and I’ve not smoked for 3 months. It is because of the lack of dopamine being released from hitting a cigarette. So, yes it can take months to not have withdrawal symptoms. I really don’t want to have a Dr give me a “pill” fix cuz then I’d have to get off of that. Depression sucks!!!! But, I’m proud of quitting for 3 months.
Check out the following resources Stormy Girl. They discuss the difference between "withdrawal" issues and the processes of going back to "normal" after quitting. whyquit.com/joels-videos/using-cigarettes-to-self-medicate-pre-existing-conditions/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/resources-regarding-mental-health-issues/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/going-back-to-normal-after-quitting/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/when-you-may-really-need-to-talk-to-your-doctor-about-quitting-smoking/
I say this from personal experience, but if you are feeling withdrawal symptoms past several weeks (physically, they peak in 1 - 3 days, but not uncommon to still feel "out of sorts" for a few weeks as your mind and body adjust and normalize) then there is something else going on and smoking just masked it or put a band-aide on it; maybe it's boredom in life, lack of purpose, lack of direction, anxiety, etc. We all feel these things from time to time, but the difference for an ex-smoker is that we attribute it to quitting smoking. From my perspective, those aren't withdrawal symptoms past a few weeks; those are other issues that need addressed. Sometimes addressing those issues can be as simple as finding a hobby that lights you up, sometimes finding tools to calm and ground yourself like QiGong, deep breathing, prayer, or meditation, and sometimes a licensed therapist might be what you need. Point being that as somebody who knows this struggle, I am pretty confident that if you are having "withdrawal symptoms" that are lasting months or years,... it's not the cigarettes/nicotine and there is help out there in all kinds of forms.
Glad that you have found my resources. Being that you are just starting your quit, check out the resources on this page: ntapblog.wordpress.com/can-you-spare-about-an-hour-and-a-half-to-help-to-save-your-life/
I'm just over 18 months quit and it just feels normal to not smoke and I feel all the better for it. Thanks Joel your videos provided invaluable information in the early days of my quit
44yr smoker who quit 4yrs ago, cold turkey. I promise you, you will be glad you did. All of us were born non-smokers, so ask yourself, what did you do to occupy your time before cigarettes? Do it. You'll feel better, you'll look better, and you'll save a TON of money. I have ZERO desire to ever smoke again, ZERO.
You are right Joe, I quitted 8 days ago and the 3th and 4th were the breaking point for me. The 4th day around noon I actually decided to go buy tobaco cos I couldn't take it anymore, but somehow I got distracted with other things and went to bed without smoking. Next day the 5th I felt like a demon had just left my body. I woke up to a completely different reality, a sweet reality pretty much like the one I had when I was a kid and my body wasn't a slave to any substance. Yes I do get the cravings for a couple of minutes now and then, but having been through hell these cravings feel like a walk in the park. And you know what Joe? I think determination is the key word here. If you are determined to go through hell, to go to war against your biology and your habits you will definately win this battle. Cheers man.
Congratulations on eight days Enzo Maidana. Yes once you got past the peak withdrawal period symptoms ease up dramatically. The two pages that really illustrate this point are whyquit.com/joels-videos/the-importance-of-the-first-three-days-of-your-quit/ and whyquit.com/joels-videos/difference-between-physical-and-psychological-urges/. While that time period can be hard it is worth the effort that was put into it. Also the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/quitting-smoking-a-fate-worse-than-death/ is relevant. Also, while it was hard for you, in the long run that can be to your great advantage. The page whyquit.com/joels-videos/the-advantage-of-having-a-difficult-time-when-quitting-smoking/ explains why this is the case. You want to do all you can now to avoid having to go through quitting ever again. The pages whyquit.com/joels-videos/videos-related-to-the-implications-of-a-puff-once-you-have-quit/ and whyquit.com/joels-videos/relapse-prevention-resources/ can help with this goal. Again, congratulations and just know that all you need to insure that this is the last quit you will ever have to endure is now to simply stick to a personal commitment to never take another puff. Joel
Dear Joel, My heartfelt respect is for you. I cannot express in words how much I admire your thoughtful advise and constant effort to help people to get rid of a horrible addiction. Thank you so much. 3 Weeks completed today. NTAP for life.
I smoked for about 42 years and just stopped smoking one morning. I initially missed the "habit" of lighting a cigarette, but had no cigarettes or lighters/matches. I did not experience any excessive withdrawal symptoms as such and I also did not eat more or replaced it with another habit. You are 100% correct that there is not a "norm" and people withdraw differently. I still don't smoke!
Hello Alex: Be sure to check out all of the resources on the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/does-nicotine-withdrawal-really-last-for-months-or-years/. You said you went to the doctor and everything is fine. Make sure that the doctor actually checked for the things covered on that page, especially the materials covered on the pages: Life goes on without smoking Will this get better? “I feel 100% better since I quit smoking!” Resources regarding mental health issues Medication adjustments that may be necessary after quitting smoking Using cigarettes to self medicate pre-existing conditions “Is this a symptom of quitting smoking?” (part 2)
4 days 2 hours 53 minuttes since last cigar, pulse rate normal, oxigen level normal, I can breath easily, no more Carbon monoxide, no nicotine, but sometimes headache and craving happen but I will not give up. We all can do this.
No smoking nor nicotine for over 4 years for me. I smoked for over 40 years. Can not imagine going back. I see people smoking and feel sorry for them and have, on occasion, told them how I quit with the help of Joel recordings. I down loaded the 11 hours of MP3 recordings and listened to them, over and over, several times. It worked for me.
I'm going into hour 48 as I watch this video. I made it three weeks last year, and I know it keeps getting a little easier every day. Thanks for the videos Joel!
You are welcome Ross. Try to watch some of the relapse prevention videos th-cam.com/play/PL4F05C03D0F9B86DB.html in the coming weeks. They can help to make this year's quit the last quit you will ever have to do.
Hello Matthew: Getting through the third day is key. As long as you get 72 hours under your belt with no nicotine being administered from any source at all, physical withdrawal will ease up. That is if it has not eased up already. Some people quit with minimal withdrawal. The page whyquit.com/joels-videos/every-quit-is-different/ addresses that issue. To help solidify this quit, consider going through the resources on the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/can-you-spare-about-an-hour-and-a-half-to-help-to-save-your-life/ Then, over time go through the resources on the pages whyquit.com/joels-videos/videos-related-to-the-implications-of-a-puff-once-you-have-quit/ and whyquit.com/joels-videos/relapse-prevention-resources/ They can help you to secure this quit over the long-term. If you have any specific questions or concerns please don't hesitate to get in touch. Joel
Joel is correct. I thought it was going to be so much harder. Sure I had some anguish but half way in half way out. Episodes ended fast. watched another video of benefits. 46 years and i am on day 5. Getting better. I am a non smoker. period
Congratulations on five days Terry. Another video related to this topic is What is nicotine withdrawal really like? th-cam.com/video/WbEoMEpmMX4/w-d-xo.html Also check out the video "What should I call myself." th-cam.com/video/pXuJCuTAM-A/w-d-xo.html
This is my 8th day smoke free. The cravings are still pretty tough but I try to drink lots of water when I have a craving and try my best to think about something else. I need to retrain my brain.
Congratulations on what must be nine days now. Sorry I was tied up yesterday and couldn't get to my messages here. Here are a couple of pages addressing issues you raised here. Joel whyquit.com/joels-videos/just-think-of-something-else/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/how-quitting-smoking-is-like-learning-to-ride-a-bicycle/
I smoked for 21 years, I’ve quit for 22 years, I always said that quitting was with out a doubt the best thing I’ve ever done for myself, I believe that in order to quit , you have to want to, you have to hate those cigarettes, you also must take an honest self appraisal, and figure out what events or circumstances might make you start again, a fight with your wife , or drinking, etc, you have to prepare your self b fore you quit, so when these urges occurs, these bad breaks happen , you don’t just say screw it, and start again,, I always told myself never ever smoke even one... as time went on my, urges and withdrawals got manageable, and things steadily got easier, I had become a non smoker, one thing that cigarettes do to a person is convince them that they can’t live without them, that’s the sick psychological trick it plays on people, once you reach the point in your quitting cycle where you realize that you can easily live without cigarettes, it’s a great personal achievement, now you have learned the truth, at that point you perceive yourself as a person who does not smoke, , never psych yourself into smoking one cigarette, and you’ll reach the goal
Here is the thing, at 2 months, you get cravings that will drive you crazy. But they happen seldomly, and only last for 5 minutes. And once you make it past the craving, they are gone. Not like the first few weeks when all you did was think about smoking every second of the day. Sometimes the cravings can be a little more than seldom, maybe twice a day. But again after 5 - 10 minutes they go away. It sucks, really really bad. But it's bearable. It never feels like the first couple of weeks. So relax, if you make it past a month, your going to be ok.
Hello Mike: I am going to highlight a few points you raised here for the benefit of others reading your response.It may have been your experience that you were experiencing craves for a couple of months that were at the time driving you crazy. There were likely things that you could have done at the time to minimize if not even have eradicates those reactions but that is a moot point now. You got through them and as long as you never return to smoking you will never have to face them again. I need to point out though that most people who quit don’t go through this kind of extended craving period if they take a few steps to deal with the thoughts that they have when first quitting. Check out these resources on this issue: whyquit.com/joels-videos/every-quit-is-different/ What is nicotine withdrawal really like? th-cam.com/video/WbEoMEpmMX4/w-d-xo.html whyquit.com/joels-videos/fixating-on-a-cigarette/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/the-advantage-of-having-a-difficult-time-when-quitting-smoking/ Difference between physical and psychological urges: th-cam.com/video/_A8s7Pw7jA0/w-d-xo.html As far as for simply stating that get trough the first month and you will be okay, check out these resources: Complacency: th-cam.com/video/MZSktbwotI4/w-d-xo.html "I got through a month without smoking--Boy do I deserve a cigarette for that!”: whyquit.com/joels-videos/boy-do-i-deserve-a-cigarette-for-that/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/craves-and-thoughts-that-occur-over-time/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/i-know-too-much-about-smoking-to-ever-be-able-to-relapse/ Again, what you experienced last time was worth the effort--no matter how hard that effort was. See whyquit.com/joels-videos/treat-quitting-smoking-as-if-you-are-fighting-for-your-life/. Again though, you will never have to experience quitting again as long as you continue to stick to a personal commitment to never take another puff. Joel
It has been my experience Joel, I can only talk about my experience. I'm not trying to take away anything you teach or educate your followers. But sometimes former smokers can offer valuable insight for those who plan on quitting. Quitting is not easy. But it can be done, and people have done it. And as a non-smoker I can look back and say that it is tough to quit but rewarding at the same time, and it can be done. For me the cravings haven't totally gone away, but for me they are manageable, and I'm sure for most non smokers they are too. The most important thing you mention though is the commitment to never take another puff. That is without a doubt crucial. I have quite 2 times before, and both times I went back to smoking, thinking I can smoke just one cigarette here and there. NO NO NO NO. I can't. I must never ever smoke ever ever again. PERIOD.
You wrote, "Quitting is not easy. But it can be done, and people have done it." Again, for many if not most people the statement "Quitting is not easy" can be true. But there are people who do find it easy. Check out these additional resources on the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/what-is-nicotine-withdrawal-really-like/ Easy or hard though, quitting is worth the effort: whyquit.com/joels-videos/treat-quitting-smoking-as-if-you-are-fighting-for-your-life/
One other good page worth reading on the topic of quitting not being easy: whyquit.com/joels-videos/for-people-who-think-quitting-smoking-is-the-hardest-thing-they-have-ever-done/
My first time to see your video on YT. I found your website a few days ago. I'm Day 16 of the Quit and your videos helped get me through a few tough moments. So, thank you very much for that. I have no power over nicotine. I had a heart to heart with the Lord, about 23 days ago, regarding my nicotine habit. For a few days, I cut from 10 a day to 3 per day. My Quit Day was 9/17/2022. Hardest thing EVER. Man, I loved my nicotine fixes. Feels good to be smokefree. I'm scared to say "I'm a non-smoker". I'm even more scared to throw my cigs away, yet. I should have done it already, I know, but at this point I'm afraid to even touch a pack. It's a struggle, but something I asked for. I just want the mental urges to go away. I've been throught the Sads and more recently, the Mads. I'm trying to change my attitude. Just glad you are here.
Mine went for about 3 days but really about a week of depression and extreme irritability. I'm over it now. This is the second time I've been through this. The real danger of relapse is just how easy it is to get the tolerance and cravings under control. It just seems surreal like you could have done it at any time you want and that you're no longer susceptible to the addictive nature of nicotine. Then, after you start again, the addiction is right back to where it was before.
Joel it's because of your help through your website and videos I have successfully quit 20 years of smoking! I am smoke free since over two years now!! Thanks to you and what you have been doing for humanity Can't express through words how life is as a non smoker, life is so good now and I love myself!! Smoking is an itch which never gets satisfied, I got tired of trying to fulfill that crave which never gets satisfied.. That's how one successfully quits any vice but to understand this simple philosophy of quitting, one needs a Guru like you who constantly finds out different ways to make realize this simple fact I wish may God grant You Joel Spitzer a good life!
Congratulations on two plus years Sanjay. Glad to have been able to help. I do want to point out though that not everyone needs a Guru or any other kind of external help in order to quit smoking. I never want to leave people with the impression that quitting is impossible unless someone is to get some kind of professional help. The following resources all address this concept: whyquit.com/joels-videos/i-couldnt-have-done-it-without-you/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/are-people-doomed-to-fail-if-they-dont-get-professional-help-to-quit-smoking/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/breaking-free-from-nicotines-grip-is-more-doable-than-most-people-think/ I also want to make sure that I have recently assembled two pages designed to help people who have quit to sustain their resolve over the long term. The pages are: whyquit.com/joels-videos/relapse-prevention-resources/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/videos-related-to-the-implications-of-a-puff-once-you-have-quit/ Checking out one or two of the links a month on the pages can help keep any longer term quitter's resolve reinforced for years. A little extra reinforcement can be beneficial for any former smoker. Once again, I am glad that you did find my resources helpful and if you ever have any other questions or concerns please don't hesitate to get in touch. Joel
My last smoke was on 5/8/2017 and your video clip played a huge role in the beginning for me to stay quit. I’ve watched this video over 100 times among a few other ones. Thank you!
9 months smoke free. I've watched each of your videos at least twice lol. Yours has been the absolute best information I've received regarding a smoke free life , I really want to say thank you so much. My life has been fabulous since I've quit. and thank you for posting up a new video. something about listen to your passion about quitting is what helped me through my first 3 days. and I've never looked back.
One week out,cold turkey.No withdrawal symptoms.I just keep reminding myself how much my body appreciates what I’ve done,and the benefits quitting smoking has in store.To all of you out there who have recently quit,enjoy your new found freedom.It will only get better!Thank you Joel,for your inspiring message!
You are very welcome Brian. I am glad that you are finding the resources helpful. If you ever have any specific questions or concerns regarding smoking or quitting issues please don't hesitate to get back in touch. Joel
Went from 20 to 30 a day to cold turkey. I tried everything else in the past I felt nicotine replacement made it harder and longer and never sucessful. At 3 days now and starting to get easier looking forward to a couple of weeks and hopefully the cravings will fully or mostly stop.
Congratulations on getting to your third day Sam. Getting past the three day mark is really significant. The page whyquit.com/joels-videos/the-importance-of-the-first-three-days-of-your-quit/ addresses the reason why. As far as for the cravings fully stopping, check out the resources below. Hope you find them helpful. Joel whyquit.com/joels-videos/will-i-ever-stop-thinking-of-cigarettes/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/difference-between-physical-and-psychological-urges/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/does-it-take-21-days-to-break-the-smoking-habit/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/how-long-before-i-dont-want-a-cigarette/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/craves-and-thoughts-that-occur-over-time/
Congratulations on three weeks Levin. Check out the video What is nicotine withdrawal really like? th-cam.com/video/WbEoMEpmMX4/w-d-xo.html Also good to watch for people who have no withdrawals are the videos Were you addicted? th-cam.com/video/pWcTkTmRn60/w-d-xo.html and Every quit is different th-cam.com/video/fYHkaGt-YhE/w-d-xo.html
the urge/need to cope with life will never end, but the actual withdrawal symptoms absolutely subside nearly completely after 6-7 days. any feeling after, is basically psychosomatic. not to diminish anyone's experience, but finding new ways to cope through sudden and intense emotions is necessary for everyone. Deep breathing, meditation, hydration, and exercise is surprisingly underrated/underutilized! You CAN take control of your life and be productive, whatever that may look like for YOU.
Congratulations on 50 days Ahkeeia. At this point in time withdrawal symptoms are likely long gone. What you may still be getting better though are many normal body functions are getting back to normal and you have likely broken most of the normal trigger circumstances that happen on most typical days. There are still new circumstances that you may encounter creating a few smoking thoughts, but these thoughts are a whole lot different than what you experienced in the early days of your quit. The following pages all address these different issues: whyquit.com/joels-videos/difference-between-physical-and-psychological-urges/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/going-back-to-normal-after-quitting/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/will-i-ever-stop-thinking-of-cigarettes/ Also, over time go through the resources on these two pages: whyquit.com/joels-videos/videos-related-to-the-implications-of-a-puff-once-you-have-quit/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/relapse-prevention-resources/ They can help to keep your motivation reinforced at those times when new thoughts or triggers do arise.
Many people, myself included, started smoking because we were feeling bad to begin with. When we stop smoking, we are no longer numb to our old problems. Chalking these issues up to withdrawal is destructive. Instead, we need to see quitting as a chance to finally address our underlying issues by seeing them clearly for once.
You may still think about smoking after a year or so....but it is totally ok. You think about it and you shake it off. I don't fight those thoughts anymore. July will be one full year I am nicotine free (cigarette free- 3 plus years). I am just having thoughts now, not cravings. I may feel some stress and I think, oh a cigarette would be nice about now.....then I remind myself how terrible I felt when I smoked, and even though I think about smoking, I know I will never do it. I can handle the fleeting daily thoughts. They do pass quickly and I forget about them. I am so happy I am not hooked on nicotine any longer!
Just hit my 4th day of quitting. I'm 16 and have been smoking a pack a day since I was 13, I'm feeling physically better today but not mentally and this video helped reassure me a lot. Thanks
Congratulations on making it to your fourth day Liam. I am glad that you are finding my resources helpful. Check out the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/the-importance-of-the-first-three-days-of-your-quit/. I think you will also find it reassuring. Also check out the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/understanding-the-emotional-loss-experienced-when-quitting-smoking/. I think you will appreciate it since you mentioned feeling physically better but no mentally better yet. Another relevant page would be whyquit.com/joels-videos/difference-between-physical-and-psychological-urges/ Hope you find these additional pages helpful too. Joel
I am on the 6th day of my quit. You are right, the first 2-3 days are the worst. During that period the peak withdrawal symptoms literally leave your entire physical and psychological being throbbing with a desire for a cigarette. But things do fade away pretty rapidly after that. Additionally, I was helped by starting my quit with pneumonia and an infected lung. Staying off the cigarettes has undoubtedly helped clear that condition up more quickly.
Sorry its taken me so long to reply to you. I had a problem with comments on my channel not showing up for the past month. They all just appeared today. Here is a page explaining the problem that occurred: www.whyquit.com/joels-videos/i-am-seeing-comments-again Again, sorry it has taken me so long to get back to you.
Cravings are personal. Everyone is different... When you are ready and really "WANT" to quit, you will quit.... I tried to quit smoking several times and after careful consideration and reflection I discovered I didn't really want to quit. I was just looking for some type of miracle which does not happen... Keep Trying! When you get to that point of WANTING TO REALLY QUIT, you will without fear, excuses, and even cravings will be easier!
Some people don't even find it hard for those first few days--at least not as hard as they anticipated it was going to be. Pages related to this are: whyquit.com/joels-videos/every-quit-is-different/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/what-is-nicotine-withdrawal-really-like/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/for-people-who-think-quitting-smoking-is-the-hardest-thing-they-have-ever-done/ Also, it is important to note that people who are using nicotine replacement therapies often do experience extended withdrawals. Resources related to this are: whyquit.com/joels-videos/prolonging-nicotine-withdrawal/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/comparing-quitting-smoking-experiences-with-others-on-youtube-blogs/
It is important to note that some people never have a hard time quitting, even in the first days of their quit. Check out the video Every quit is different th-cam.com/video/fYHkaGt-YhE/w-d-xo.html. Also touching on the topic is the video What is nicotine withdrawal really like? th-cam.com/video/WbEoMEpmMX4/w-d-xo.html
being told that I would have symptoms for months and years is the reason I caved in last time because it gave me the impression that I would be experiencing peak withdrawal for years. Anyways On my 3rd day of a new quit and won't be discouraged this time though, anyways thank you for making this video.
I had my last cigarette Dec 17th 2017 I picked up again on mothers day 2018 now I am on my way again to be smoke free I am on my day 2. I sure miss being a smoke free person. I will not give up. thanks for this video.
Hello Mary: Here are a few resource pages more related to your comment here than this particular video: whyquit.com/joels-videos/videos-related-to-the-implications-of-a-puff-once-you-have-quit/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/neither-side-is-perfect/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/boy-do-i-miss-smoking/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/youve-relapsed-now-what/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/can-you-spare-about-an-hour-and-a-half-to-help-to-save-your-life/
I'm at day 3 I was smoking American spirit with no filters for about out 4 years, after quitting for 6 years the first time, it's not too bad I get about 3-5 urges a day but it's getting easier, the longer time goes, stay strong people work out I get up every morning and go walk.
Congratulations on getting here to day three Imu. It is a very important and pivotal day in the quitting process. The page whyquit.com/joels-videos/the-importance-of-the-first-three-days-of-your-quit/ explains why. Here are a few other pages relating to issues you raised here in your post: whyquit.com/joels-videos/additive-free-cigarettes/ (discusses American Spirit) whyquit.com/joels-videos/lost-long-term-quits/ (considering you had once quit for six years) whyquit.com/joels-videos/will-i-ever-stop-thinking-of-cigarettes/ (addresses how the urges do become easier to deal with over time) whyquit.com/joels-videos/resources-related-to-the-importance-of-being-smarter-than-nicotine-as-opposed-to-having-to-be-stronger/ (addresses the importance of staying smarter than nicotine as opposed to having to stay stronger) whyquit.com/joels-videos/incorporating-exercise-after-quitting/ Once again, congratulations on getting to your third day Imu. To make this quit the last one you will ever have to go through again is as simple now as continuing to stick to a personal commitment to never take another puff. Joel
I think some of it can be psychosomatic. You have to overcome nicotine addiction in different situations and, of course, it causes anxiety or maybe even other physical symptoms. It is not like it is effortless, but it is totally manageable.
Hello Ilza: Here are a few pages addressing issues you raised here: whyquit.com/joels-videos/difference-between-physical-and-psychological-urges/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/how-quitting-smoking-is-like-learning-to-ride-a-bicycle/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/smoking-triggers/
Even after quitting for a 2 or 3 months, the smell of smoke from people walking by is still nice. Will this ever go away, and when? Although the "urge" to smoke gets smaller everyday after quitting, smelling cigarette smoke is still annoyingly attractive. I need this to go away and to know it will disappear one day.
Some people like the smell forever but most don't. I have seen people who liked the smell for months and sometimes longer, then to one day get a whiff of smoke, get almost nauseous and then hate it forever after that. Regarding smells though, check out the video Does everything smell and taste better after you quit smoking?th-cam.com/video/Le1AZS8iyhY/w-d-xo.html
i have stoppen 23 days ago and the fist days were hard but not as bad as everyone would make you believe . just drink enough water avoid to much coffie and dont skip breakfast and you will be fine
Well, I have lots and lots of more seconds for you to hear. I hope you find each of them helpful. If you have any specific questions or concerns regarding smoking or quitting issues feel free to get in touch. I will point you to plenty of seconds, minutes or even hours of information that can help you to quit or stay quit.
yeah, the most discouraging thing i have seen since working up to quitting is this exact thing. i've been terrified of withdrawals, don't wanna be more depressed after quitting. i'm already underweight and can't handle getting anxiety or feeling nauseous or missing meals, afriad the sheer withdrawals themselves might cause a ton of other issues. idk i wanna quit so bad...but terrified of the drop in dopamine and physical withdrawals. i just cut caffeine out after abusing it most of my life and the withdrawals from that cold turkey had me feeling i needed to go to the ER...after seeing what getting off caffeine did..i'm scared to quit nicotine.
I'm at the 2 month mark of quitting and still have strong cravings but they are gradually getting less intense. I feel it's more mental than physical. I was a 40+ year smoker at 2 packs a day at the end.
hey . I've been a smoker since I was 17 yrs .. I'm 35 now and just recently I quit smoking . It's been 9 days so far and I'm scared . The withdrawal , the symptoms I'm getting are really bad , my head for example . its like my mind is in a "vice grip " . the pain , nausea , mild headaches , and trying to focus on certain tasks have been a problem for me since then . my question is ....is this normal , for me to feel this way after I quit ? , cause it hurts .
Hello Michael. Once past the 72 hour mark of a cold turkey quit it is no longer safe or prudent to write off these kind of symptoms to simple withdrawal. Check out the resources on the page ntapblog.wordpress.com/will-this-get-better/ Check in with your doctor to get to the bottom line of why these symptoms are now happening.
I gave up smoking 2 years ago and still suffer a bit. No cravings but physical things like sensitive teeth, funny sensations at the top of the chest/bottom of throat and a sudden need to breath in deep every so often. Now it isn't like this 24/7 just every so often but still enough to be noticed. Should go to the doctors really.
Yes if you are having any kind of symptoms that concern you its long past the time that you should be writing them off to having quit smoking two years ago, The following pages address this issue: whyquit.com/joels-videos/life-goes-on-without-smoking/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/when-you-may-really-need-to-talk-to-your-doctor-about-quitting-smoking/
Yes it does (is) last(ing) longer than a month, I'm on month 2, and my anxiety is out of control, it's the absolute worse, it's crippling and debilitating and paralyzing. My anxiety started day 3 and has lasted every week 3-7 days a week. No one told me this was possible, no one ever said that it would completely change me, my personality, my life etc.
Congratulations on two months Tizzy Izzy. Even though the problems you are feeling started shortly after you had quit smoking they are not from nicotine withdrawal. There is some other underlying factor at play. Check out the following resources. They discuss the difference between "withdrawal" issues and the processes of going back to "normal" after quitting. whyquit.com/joels-videos/using-cigarettes-to-self-medicate-pre-existing-conditions/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/resources-regarding-mental-health-issues/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/going-back-to-normal-after-quitting/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/will-this-get-better/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/when-you-may-really-need-to-talk-to-your-doctor-about-quitting-smoking/ There is one other variable that may be at play that may not be from an physiological basis but more now because of situational circumstances that we are currently going through--the global pandemic and the subsequent lockdowns that many people are experiencing. See the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/resources-regarding-interaction-between-nicotine-and-stress/. The first article on that page explains how times like this can often result in the kind of anxiety you are referring to happening in recent quitters, as well as current smokers and people who had never smoked a day in their life. The only difference is that the recent quitters often blame the reactions on having quit smoking as opposed to the actual cause. Again though, if the anxiety is causing you such a major disruption you should be talking to your doctor about possible help that he or she may give you. Joel
Two weeks I feel terrible i don’t crave nicotine but I’m fatigued sometimes it feels hard to breath I have a foggy mind I’m easily irritated but my doctors say there is nothing wrong with me. I’m so scared that I will never feel normal.
Hello Benito. Before I address your question here, can you specify two things. First, are you totally off of all forms of nicotine for two weeks now? I ask this because people often write me saying that they have quit smoking, but at time it turns out that these people are still using nicotine replacement products or quit smoking medications that often can be responsible for ongoing symptoms. The other question is are you on any other medications for any other conditions, medications you were using regularly while you were still actively smoking?
Thank you for the help, Mr. Spitzer. I've been on the quitting journey for three weeks, starting on week four as of today. I've noticed the anxiety, depression, and all other symptoms have persisted, so I think it's time for a little Mental Help from a local professional. I also thankfully have my father to talk to before that time arrives, and these videos have definitely been a great help. You don't make any of this out to be a dire, horrible thing that's going to take a miracle to get over. You tell it straight, and that alone has been helping me manage this even better. Thank you again Mr. Spitzer, I'll keep researching your articles and get myself some help asap.
Congratulations on your three week quit Free HD McGee. Glad that you are going to check in with your doctor. Here are a few pages addressing this issue: whyquit.com/joels-videos/resources-regarding-mental-health-issues/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/when-you-may-really-need-to-talk-to-your-doctor-about-quitting-smoking/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/smoking-and-cabin-fever/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/life-goes-on-without-smoking/ I included the last couple of pages because depending on where you are in the world at this point in time, there is a lot of extra stress, anxiety and depression happening because of the situation many people are in because of the current pandemic. Meaning many current smokers, former smokers and never smokers are having more mental health issues. It can be hard to determine the true underlying cause of a specific episode which is why it is so advantageous to get an assessment from a professional who can work with you who has access to all of the pertinent information to what is going on in your specific circumstances. Hopefully you will get a handle on the current issues that may be at play. Know also that quitting smoking has the full potential of minimizing even mental health issues that could happen over your lifetime. The page whyquit.com/joels-videos/quitting-smoking-can-make-you-calmer-happier-and-healthier/ addresses this issue. If there is ever any other specific questions or concerns you have regarding smoking or quitting issues please feel free to get back in touch. Once again, congratulations on your three weeks. Joel
Juanjo, be careful writing off all anxiety that you may be experiencing now to simply being a result of you having stopped smoking. We are living in extraordinary times with the pandemic and the resulting change of lifestyle that many people are experiencing throughout the world. See that page whyquit.com/joels-videos/resources-regarding-interaction-between-nicotine-and-stress/. The first article discusses how certain circumstances can cause former smokers to feel more anxious after quitting smoking. What is important to note from the first article on that page is how current smokers and never smokers may also be feeling much of the same way at the same time. Also see the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/life-goes-on-without-smoking/. As far as for craving a cigarette months after quitting, see the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/craves-and-thoughts-that-occur-over-time/ One other thing that I need to point out. Some people contact me months after quitting complaining about ongoing craves or ongoing withdrawal symptoms. Some of the time though these are people who did quit smoking but may still be using other nicotine products like nicotine replacement products, vaping products or smokeless tobacco products. These people are indeed still experiencing withdrawal. These pages address this particular situation: whyquit.com/joels-videos/prolonging-nicotine-withdrawal/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/comparing-quitting-smoking-experiences-with-others-on-youtube-blogs/
The videos Come share your strength, come recognize your vulnerabilities th-cam.com/video/GIloKURIIic/w-d-xo.html, "I'll come for reinforcement when I need it" th-cam.com/video/CiIOvdMZ7us/w-d-xo.html and "I know too much about smoking to ever be able to relapse" th-cam.com/video/HMU8ON0G4G0/w-d-xo.html explain some of the reasons people come back, or benefit greatly from coming back periodically to reinforce their quits.
I was a heavy Tobacco user , chewing one , for 7 years , and i quit cold turkey without any withdrawal symptoms, instead i saw improvements in my over all health every single day. Please quit asap guys.
Hello Roy: Congratulations on your two week quit. If I am interpreting your comment here correctly, you are saying that your withdrawal symptoms at two weeks are urges at night and not sleeping easily. If these are indeed what you are thinking of as withdrawal, see the pages whyquit.com/joels-videos/sleep-disruptions-and-adjustments-after-quitting-smoking/ and whyquit.com/joels-videos/going-back-to-normal-after-quitting/. Also, the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/possible-changes-in-caffeine-tolerance/ might be relevant here. As far as for urges to smoke at night, check out these resources: whyquit.com/joels-videos/difference-between-physical-and-psychological-urges/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/i-want-one/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/just-think-of-something-else/ If you are somehow referring to other physical symptoms that are ongoing--be careful to writing off everything you feel to having quit smoking. The pages whyquit.com/joels-videos/life-goes-on-without-smoking/ and whyquit.com/joels-videos/when-you-may-really-need-to-talk-to-your-doctor-about-quitting-smoking/ address other symptoms that people may have after quitting.
6 days nicotine free, physical withdrawals seems to be gone, mentally I seem a little more irritable than normal. Cravings are only really heavy after I eat meals
Congratulations on six days Zachary. Here are a couple of pages addressing your irritability and and one page with lots of resources that explain why it is quite typical to still get occasional thoughts or cravings over time: whyquit.com/joels-videos/new-reactions-to-anger-after-quitting-smoking/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/understanding-the-emotional-loss-experienced-when-quitting-smoking/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/craves-and-thoughts-that-occur-over-time/ I hope you find these resources helpful. Joel
Congratulations on 13 days Zachary. Here is a page with a message I used to share with my clinic graduates on their 13th day of their quit. (Clinic started on a Tuesday and graduation was the second Monday) whyquit.com/joels-videos/getting-on-with-your-life-after-you-quit-smoking/
Yea don’t say it can’t last months either. I used to 50-60 mg of nicotine daily. And I’m 2 1/2 months in quitting and this feels awful. Worse than the first 3 days. I’m pretty sure it’s Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome so don’t act like it doesn’t exist either.
Hello Camilo: You really need to go through the materials on the resource page for this video: whyquit.com/joels-videos/does-nicotine-withdrawal-really-last-for-months-or-years/ Especially relevant is this link on that page: whyquit.com/joels-videos/life-goes-on-without-smoking/ Writing off your ongoing symptoms to nicotine withdrawal is a very dangerous tactic to be taking for you may be overlooking an independent problem that really needs medical attention.
It has been 7 weeks fo rme. Ive been to the doctor. Everything is fine. My symptoms are debilitating. Headaches, brain fog, awake at night, fatigue, vision blur, emotional roller coaster. Sometimes I feel better. Then it gets really bad. I couldnt handle it a few times now while quitting and would smoke and it all dissaptes. Until I try quit again. You talk much like this reality is questionable and anoher cause than quitting. I am suffering with it and healthy on all other accounts....and there is scientific reports showing it does happen. Its just not like this for everyone.
Hello Nathan: You wrote, "I couldnt handle it a few times now while quitting and would smoke and it all dissaptes.” If I am interpreting this correctly, you have not been quit for seven weeks-you have been trying to quit for seven weeks. Every time you take that first drag after having quit you are in essence starting over again. Either you are starting smoking or starting quitting. Using this strategy then indeed withdrawal could last for weeks, months, years or decades. If you were indeed totally off all nicotine for many weeks and were still feeling the symptoms you described, you need to follow-up again with your doctor. I am not sure if you went through the resources pages attached to this video. Here are ones that I hope you do go through now, as well as a few others that are worth mentioning: whyquit.com/joels-videos/when-you-may-really-need-to-talk-to-your-doctor-about-quitting-smoking/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/using-cigarettes-to-self-medicate-pre-existing-conditions/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/going-back-to-normal-after-quitting/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/i-know-i-am-going-to-gain-weight-if-i-quit-smoking/ (Title says weight but video covers more than that one issue) whyquit.com/joels-videos/you-know-smoking-two-or-three-cigarettes-is-better-than-having-smoked-two-or-three-packs/
Thank you for your referenced videos and thoughts. They are very informative. To be honest my smoking pattern has been on and off. I would smoke when I came to town and met friends (on holidays), Then go away and not smoke and just worked through the withdrawals. Over time the withdrawals seemed to continue for longer and longer until Id return and smoke again and the symptoms always go. Ive not smoked more than a pack a day when I was smoking and that is extremely rare. I have never used patches or medication either. Since the additional symptoms of headache, fatigue, emotional swings etc slowly emerging. It has become much more debilitating during detox periods and effected my working periods too much. I decided to quit a few times but returning to the same social scene proved difficult. Then I understood I was very addicted and I didnt want to lose my job. So Ive decided its simply no longer worth my time to smoke on return trips. Its been 7 weeks now. I am certain I wont be smoking again. It’s a mindset that I am worth better and Im just not interested anymore. The symptoms are continually lessening every day (but do swing in intensity a little interim where it can, some days, still impede my activity considerably). But at this rate of reduction of the symptoms. I still suspect it will be a like period yet for the symptoms to diminish entirely. But this of course is a guess. Ive had kidney, liver, blood glucose, hormone profile, blood profile, immune profile etc and everything seems fine every time. Even had a PET scan and I seem cancer free. I am pretty comforted everything else does seem ok. The doctor just says to ride it out as my body irs running fine and offers patches which Im not interested in as it just seems like purging the patch nicotine would draw the symptoms out for longer on top of what my body is already detoxing. If there are any tests you recommend given my history I will follow it up for sure. Thanks for your recorded thoughts and insights on You tube. On behalf of myself and many others who suffer from this highly addictive substance to find much benefit in watching them. Regards, Nathan.
I am assuming they checked thyroid then with your hormone screen. I talk about this issue in the video on the whyquit.com/joels-videos/i-know-i-am-going-to-gain-weight-if-i-quit-smoking/ mentioned above. The going back to normal page whyquit.com/joels-videos/going-back-to-normal-after-quitting/ addresses a few other issues to watch out for--like finding a normal eating pattern (normal for you as a former smoker as opposed to what was normal when you were an active smoker). Also I think that page covered caffeine related issues. If not, check out this page: whyquit.com/joels-videos/possible-changes-in-caffeine-tolerance/ Also, you did not mention if you are on any medications for other conditions. If so, check out the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/medication-adjustments-that-may-be-necessary-after-quitting-smoking/ I am glad that you are thinking more now about not smoking at certain times like on trips. I am going to suggest that over time you go through the resources on these two pages: whyquit.com/joels-videos/relapse-prevention-resources/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/videos-related-to-the-implications-of-a-puff-once-you-have-quit/ Keeping a quit going is oh so much easier than ever having to start a quit over again, and, if for some reason your adjustment periods is longer than most, you really don't want to have to go through it over and over again. To insure that this is indeed the last time you ever have to deal with quitting and its side effects again is as simple this time as now sticking to a personal commitment to never take another puff. Joel
Thankyou yet again. Im actually very healthy (which is odd for someone with this habit I guess). All superfoods. High nutrition. No caffeine. Sprouted vegan foods. Totally nutritionally calculated. No other medications. Thyroid was good. Ex naturopath. I think I have simply dabbled too much with my internal chemistry. Possibly with my intestinal microbiome. The on again off again factor may have just played with it too much more than others who smoked continuously perhaps. Who knows. Either way its certainly stopping this time. I actually hate the stuff now after going through this. No point being so healthy while smoking. Too much else to live for than feeling like this. All I can say to others is get out now while you can. You dont know where smoking can lead you so dont gamble with your quality of life. Its simply not worth the risk. Play smart and you know what move that is. Thanks again for all your thoroughly informative support :)
Withdrawals go away in a few days. But most smokers are just weak willed. 95% of beginner smokers are teens with no self esteem. So do you really think these kind of people have a high chance of achieving anything that is slightly challenging? Nope. The reason why the quitting rate is so low is because smoking attracts the kind of people with no self esteem or willpower to begin with. If you were to give nicotine to the entire population 90% of them would find quitting very easy. Cold hard truth. Don't take a puff of your "friend's" nic stick to try to fit in kids....its the beginner of a low quality of life for you! Instead be proud of who you are and lead the way rather than follow others!
Good info mate, I am on day 5 smoke free and I only really felt withdrawals for the first 2 days. There were a few on the 3rd day but it was more just thoughts of having a smoke rather than a physical craving. Sleep and appetite are still out of whack but I know it will sort itself out soon. I encourage anyone who wants to quit to listen to this man and know he is telling the truth. I was dreading the withdrawals but it was a false fear. Also your attitude towards the habit plays a huge part. When you are fed up with the weight of the smoking addiction, you can actually feel mad enuogh at nicotine that you will never touch it again come hell or high water. Take that step towards a better life as soon as you can and stop drugging yourself with nicotine and all the other associated rubbish in modern cigarettes, you will never look back.
From personal experience! I always said that to give up smoking cold turkey is about three days, three weeks, three months. I’ve since read some thing that seems to back this up. I’ve found it almost easy after three days, easy after three weeks and hardly worth thinking about after three months! Those damn initial three days are so hard! This is just my opinion from my experience and Joel is the one with the knowledge and science to back it up! The trouble with me is I’m a bit like Mark Twain! It’s always anger that starts my smoking again, which is rather pathetic and stupid! I’m coming up to 13 days cold turkey.
Congratulations on your thirteen days James. Here are a few resources addressing issues you raised here today: whyquit.com/joels-videos/the-terrible-3s/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/does-it-take-21-days-to-break-the-smoking-habit/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/change-of-season-triggers-the-spring/ (There are also pages for fall, winter and summer. Seasonal changes are often responsible for "three month" triggers that can occur) whyquit.com/joels-videos/predestined-bad-days-after-quitting-2/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/new-reactions-to-anger-after-quitting-smoking/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/smoking-does-not-help-you-overcome-stress/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/past-successful-quits/ Also, seriously consider utilizing the following two pages to help prevent relapsing this time: whyquit.com/joels-videos/videos-related-to-the-implications-of-a-puff-once-you-have-quit/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/relapse-prevention-resources/
Joel Spitzer Thanks, Joel! That’s really good of you! It’s three weeks today! You do so much work for people giving up smoking and therefore must save so many lives! Thank you so much!
You are very welcome James. If you ever have any specific questions or concerns regarding smoking or quitting issues please feel free to get back in touch. Joel
On my 4th day cold turkey. Glad I found this video. Straight to the point and useful information. I was so confused and paranoid about not fully recovered for more than a year and stuff. Thank you again Love from india
I accidentally erased a comment and my reply on this string. Don't have a way to contact the individual who wrote it. The person had written something to the effect of "Yes it does, for even after being off for some time period she still had occasional cravings for cigarettes. I had responded with something to the effect that having "cravings" after extending time periods after quitting does not equate to having physical withdrawals from nicotine, and then referring her to my resource page ntapblog.wordpress.com/craves-and-thoughts-that-occur-over-time/. I explained why this was an important difference for I don't want people who are experiencing true physical symptoms that may be indicative a problems that may need medical attention to be writing them off to some form of extended or delayed nicotine withdrawal effect. She had written back a thank you and said that she now understood the point the video was making. When she had written the original comment and then the reply there were duplicate entries and so I tried to delete the duplicate. In doing so though I actually took out the original too. In the event that she comes back to the video I didn't want her to think that I had deleted her comment on purpose.
I quit almost seven months ago and I still have dreams of smoking cigarettes and cigarette cravings. It's awful, but once I overcome them, I realize how bad it would be go back.
Hello Caleb: Dreaming about smoking after having quit is really very common. See the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/dreams-of-smoking/ that addresses this issue. As far as for craving still happening, check out these pages: whyquit.com/joels-videos/difference-between-physical-and-psychological-urges/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/craves-and-thoughts-that-occur-over-time/ As far as for realizing how bad it would be to go back to smoking, check out the resources on these pages: whyquit.com/joels-videos/ive-relapsed-and-i-hate-it/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/videos-related-to-the-implications-of-a-puff-once-you-have-quit/ Congratulations on your seven months. I hope you find these additional resources helpful. Joel
Tragically, the emphasis on Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (or PAWS) is a big part of many boards dealing with drug withdrawal these days, especially from alcohol. It can happen of course, as different drugs present different recovery problems, especially for people with coexisting issues, like anxiety or depression for example. But as Joel rightly points out, for the majority of nicotine addicts, once the initial withdrawal starts to ease off by day three or four, things improve pretty rapidly. So, a few days of feeling "blah" and maybe two weeks of getting the bulk of relearning out of the way. And then you feel oh so much better. It may take a few months to experience all those odd situations which might trigger a thought of smoking (like a funeral, for some weird reason) but no way does life drag on with constant nicotine related angst, or a brain that still so out of whack to the point of being noticeable, that's just ridiculous. No, you feel great. It took me a few goes to finally kick the habit (tobacco in joints was always my downfall all those years ago) so I've had a few of those horrible three days off the smokes to get through. Not once did I or anyone I know have PAWS issues weeks later, let alone months or years. Must add that the whole PAWS scare also falls into that helpless victim trap that is especially common with alcoholics and the twelve step program's mindset..."I'm powerless to stop drinking" or "I need a higher power to help me". Rubbish. You need knowledge, understanding and a bit of backbone. YOU can do it; you don't need an invisible friend to hand your responsibilities onto; you certainly don't need to be told you are helpless, only babies fill that role and even they learn pretty darn quick how to get you to do what they want.
Sorry its taken me so long to reply to you. I had a problem with comments on my channel not showing up for the past month. They all just appeared today. Here is a page explaining the problem that occurred: www.whyquit.com/joels-videos/i-am-seeing-comments-again Again, sorry it has taken me so long to get back to you.
Congratulations on 25 years Keith. Here are a few pages related to what you are saying here: whyquit.com/joels-videos/will-i-eventually-not-like-the-smell-of-cigarette-smoke/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/tell-a-newbie-how-many-seconds-a-day-you-want-a-cigarette/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/ill-have-to-use-willpower-for-the-rest-of-my-life-not-to-smoke/
I smoked a pack a day for 37 years and I quit almost 2 years ago. I mostly don't even think about it anymore except after eating. I still get the after diner cravings. Many times after I finish a meal I think, "A cigarette sure would be good right now".
Congratulations on almost two years A Watchman. As far as for getting the thought of "A cigarette sure would be good right now", check out the following pages: whyquit.com/joels-videos/the-fallacy-of-good-cigarettes/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/i-want-one/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/craves-and-thoughts-that-occur-over-time/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/just-think-of-something-else/
I'm worried it's been 24 days and I still feel pain all over the left side of my body .. and a small swollen near my neck, I have no energy at all I'm so tired ... this is normal?
Hello beast c89: The symptoms you are describing are not in any way normal and not ones associated with quitting, especially 24 days into a quit. You need to go to your doctor. Related pages: whyquit.com/joels-videos/when-you-may-really-need-to-talk-to-your-doctor-about-quitting-smoking/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/life-goes-on-without-smoking/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/will-this-get-better/
Hello OzricSpacefolk: You say you are without a smoke but didn't clarify if you are off of all sources of nicotine. This is an extremely important distinction for if you are in fact using some form of nicotine you will indeed be in withdrawal everyday. The page whyquit.com/joels-videos/prolonging-nicotine-withdrawal/ addresses this issue. Lets say though that this is not the case, that you are indeed off of all nicotine. Now its important to know what you mean by withdrawal. Are you having specific physical symptoms or are you saying that you constantly want to smoke? Those are different issues. If specific symptoms, you need to get them checked out for if this is what is happening there is some other issue going on causing them that needs to get determined. You are playing a very dangerous game if writing off any ongoing physical symptoms to simple withdrawal. The additional information on this video's resources page (whyquit.com/joels-videos/does-nicotine-withdrawal-really-last-for-months-or-years/) addresses this kind of concern. Also related would be the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/when-you-may-really-need-to-talk-to-your-doctor-about-quitting-smoking/ If it is a matter of constantly wanting to smoke--this is a different issue. Pages addressing this kind of problem are: whyquit.com/joels-videos/i-want-one/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/fixating-on-a-cigarette/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/boy-do-i-miss-smoking/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/resources-regarding-the-advantage-of-quitting-with-a-positive-attitude/ One more page worth mentioning here is whyquit.com/joels-videos/everyone-is-different/ Hope you find these resources helpful. Joel
Its been more than a month now, I haven't smoke after smoking for more than 15years. I felt if you can control your urge for first four/five dayas then its becomes easier to avoid. The best way don't think about it. Go for a cycling, swimming, gym. Keep yourself busy and finally you will not realize that you are out of it.
Congratulations on your month quit bitupan21. Here are a few resources addressing topics you raised here: whyquit.com/joels-videos/just-think-of-something-else/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/incorporating-exercise-after-quitting/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/crutches-to-quit-smoking/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/how-to-do-nothing-without-a-cigarette/ Two other pages I recommend for people who are off smoking to go through slowly over time are: whyquit.com/joels-videos/videos-related-to-the-implications-of-a-puff-once-you-have-quit/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/relapse-prevention-resources/ They can help you to secure your quit over the long-term. Hope you find these resources helpful. Joel
I quit chewing 5 days ago. I'm through the fog. I'm not having cravings. Everything is going great, even the irritability. What isnt going great is my insomnia. I CANT sleep. I hate this. Why cant I sleep?
Congratulations on five days Thrash McNash. Here is a page that discusses sleep disruption issues: whyquit.com/joels-videos/sleep-disruptions-and-adjustments-after-quitting-smoking/. Also check out the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/going-back-to-normal-after-quitting/ that discusses this issue. The fog that you referred to as getting better is explained here: whyquit.com/joels-videos/disorientation-that-may-occur-when-first-quitting-smoking/ Since you also mentioned the initial irritability and no longer having cravings--check out these pages: whyquit.com/joels-videos/understanding-the-emotional-loss-experienced-when-quitting-smoking/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/new-reactions-to-anger-after-quitting-smoking/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/difference-between-physical-and-psychological-urges/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/smoking-triggers/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/craves-and-thoughts-that-occur-over-time/
day 3 was awfull , day 7 i have no withdrawal symptoms whatsoever , seeing a cig or seeing people smoke doesn't do anything to me either , if anything i feel bad for them still smoking
Ok be honest this is my second time of quit period, one lasted for 7-8 years and now at the time I am writing this , I am on third month of quit marathon. Yes you heard it right I started smoking again and smoked for 2 years after 7-8 years of cold turkey.. Now when it comes to curving ( cigarettes) first few week is a real test and it can be handled well if you keep you mind busy, best practice are walk, some sports, outdoor activities and company of healthy group of people..curving would never go , as I experienced but you need to understand that it is same as a teen one wants to try his/her first cigarette and you know everyone has tried hard to delayed it ..in their youth..so even if it years after you quit ..you still want to try it ..just like a teenage kid ..good news is it’s not permanent curving you won’t have it every day ..may be once in a week , or month or year, all you need to be aware and prepare yourself to handle that moment..believe me as two time ex smoker I want you to know smoke free life is the best lifestyle...Best Of Luck ( I was stupid to break my quit smoking marathon, so it not the curving that caused me to , but my stupidity, my other advice for you to be self aware and spot it right ) Best of luck again for healthy life ..welcome to smoke free life ...it’s beautiful
Hello Joel I know this video was uploaded 4 years ago but know that you still making a difference to date... Today is my 5th day, when I saw title of video, I was like oh no should I give up now! I'm so happy I did open video just what I needed and grateful to have someone who worked one on one with smokers. Much appreciated from💐 South Africa
Congratulations on your five day quit whenlee mahomed. I am glad that you clicked on and found the actual message of the video helpful. As far as for the video being four years old, don't let the production dates throw you. I have videos that I put up 14 years ago that are as relevant today as the day when I shot them. I also have articles up that I wrote 40 years ago that pretty much hold true today. If you have any questions or concerns regarding any smoking or quitting concerns get back in touch and I will point you to applicable resources. Once again, congratulations on your quit. Joel
Thank you Joel! Man as a quitter I would see in forums of those who are more than 6 months and even a year that still complain about withdrawal/craves. It did give me a bad image of staying quit and still have those experiences after a month or months after. I'm glad that you are saying that this shouldn't be the case and that negative feelings after a long period of time after using tobacco may be caused by something else and not the actual quit. Thank you!!!
I too believe that many forums give a false portrayal to what it truly is like to be free from nicotine. The video "Reading at other quit sites" th-cam.com/video/7W2IJIwzjTA/w-d-xo.html addresses this issue. They also often give the impression that quitting is close to impossible. The video "Quitting is more doable than most people think" th-cam.com/video/3gtXGwu3uC4/w-d-xo.html addresses this concern.
i only felt , little severe only on 4th day 6th day. only for an hour. and in that hour i feel panicking alot and crying for the fear as death is near. and then i feel like how stupid i was . it was just an withdrawal symptom lol. but on the 12th day my cousin manipulated me and now i am smoking again :( but i will quit in after 3 weeks. i smoke half a pack everyday from 3 years. and before 3 years i almost smoke 6 cigs a day from 6 years total 9 years smoker
Hello Syed: Here are a few resource pages addressing you comment above. Regarding your cousin's manipulation to get you to smoke: whyquit.com/joels-videos/how-to-deal-with-people-offering-you-cigarettes-after-you-have-quit/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/dealing-with-people-who-try-to-undercut-your-quit/ Regarding the panicky feeling you get early in your quit: whyquit.com/joels-videos/quitting-smoking-a-fate-worse-than-death/ Regarding quitting in three weeks: whyquit.com/joels-videos/setting-quit-dates/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/i-will-quit-when/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/i-will-quit-when-i-finish-this-pack/ Regarding your different amounts smoked over time: whyquit.com/joels-videos/amount-smoked/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/nicotine-tolerance/ You wrote me on another video that I am going to go respond to now. That response will tie in a little bit too to the panicky feeling you had referred to here.
Congratulations on your quit Benigno Burhan. Check out the pages whyquit.com/joels-videos/the-importance-of-the-first-three-days-of-your-quit/, whyquit.com/joels-videos/difference-between-physical-and-psychological-urges/ and whyquit.com/joels-videos/going-back-to-normal-after-quitting/. They discuss how different kind of symptoms can last a couple of weeks but how many of these symptoms are not so much from the withdrawals that often happen the first three days but more so the body readjusting and figuring out what normal patterns are going to be. Also related are the pages whyquit.com/joels-videos/medication-adjustments-that-may-be-necessary-after-quitting-smoking/ and whyquit.com/joels-videos/will-this-get-better/. These are important to consider in the event that some symptoms didn't improve. As far as for exercising having helped, see the pages whyquit.com/joels-videos/incorporating-exercise-after-quitting/, whyquit.com/joels-videos/so-i-cant-run-marathons/ and whyquit.com/joels-videos/quitting-may-lead-to-other-self-improvements/. Also the pages whyquit.com/joels-videos/quitting-may-lead-to-other-self-improvements/ and whyquit.com/joels-videos/using-deep-breathing-as-a-safe-and-effective-quitting-aid/ discuss one potential problem with using exercise as a crutch to quit.
Hello Rui Filipe: At three weeks you should not be writing off any reactions as "huge withdrawal" symptoms. If you are off all nicotine products for three weeks and having some sort of problematic symptoms you need to be talking to your doctor to come up with the actual underlying cause of symptoms you are having. Here are a few reference pages addressing this issue: whyquit.com/joels-videos/is-this-a-symptom-of-quitting-smoking-part-2/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/will-this-get-better/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/when-you-may-really-need-to-talk-to-your-doctor-about-quitting-smoking/
I had withdrawal after a week really bad so i chewd on a straw and took lots of vitamin C and apple cider viniger to stop the carvings also i ate like a pig and it eventually went away...i am on my 5th week and am starting to crave again but psychologically...i am just leting it pass ...it gets easyer everyday. People i smoked 27 years!!!! And if i knew it was this easy i would have stopped 10 years ago. Some one is intersted in letting us think its hard like a heroin addiction. Its not! Its much easyer then u think just hang in there for the first 3 weeks!
Hello Shanto Lion. Congratulations on five weeks. As far as for being in withdrawal after the first week, if what you were experiencing was indeed withdrawal, a stray or vitamin C or apple cider wouldn't have made any difference. In fact, if it were withdrawal you were experiencing the Vitamin C and vinegar would have intensified it for both would have acidified your urine making you lose more nicotine and thus crave nicotine more. By that point in time though, nicotine was metabolized into other chemicals or had been excreted. Here is a page addressing this issue: whyquit.com/joels-videos/why-i-recommend-cranberry-juice-when-first-quitting-smoking/ Also, as far as for a straw, see the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/carrying-mock-cigarettes/ One other page worth going through on the topic of taking any other product is whyquit.com/joels-videos/do-whatever-it-takes-to-quit-smoking/ As far as for craving again now, see the resources on the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/craves-and-thoughts-that-occur-over-time/ Regarding people or organizations giving the impression that quitting smoking is as hard as quitting other drugs, check out the resources on the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/is-quitting-smoking-harder-than-quitting-other-drugs/ Also partially related to this is the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/are-people-doomed-to-fail-if-they-dont-get-professional-help-to-quit-smoking/ One other related page is whyquit.com/joels-videos/breaking-free-from-nicotines-grip-is-more-doable-than-most-people-think/ Being that you are off for over five weeks now, consider slowly over time going through the resources on the following two pages to secure your quit over the long-term: whyquit.com/joels-videos/videos-related-to-the-implications-of-a-puff-once-you-have-quit/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/relapse-prevention-resources/ Hope you find all of these resources helpful. Joel
i’m a teenager and i was in a bad juul addiction, i juuled for around 7 months non stop. However, i haven’t hit a juul in 2 months and i developed this anxiety/depression after quiting. Will this go on? keep in mind i’m a teenager so i feel like i just jacked my brain up from all the juuling.
Hello bisexual bunny: Check out these resource pages: whyquit.com/joels-videos/resources-regarding-mental-health-issues/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/using-cigarettes-to-self-medicate-pre-existing-conditions/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/when-you-may-really-need-to-talk-to-your-doctor-about-quitting-smoking/ While they may to be seemed focus on cigarette smoking they are really addressing nicotine addiction issues so would be applicable to Juul or any other nicotine deliver system. Whether your Juuling caused the problems you are experiencing or not, you want to get the ongoing problem you are having professionally assessed. At two months post use it is no longer prudent to write any ongoing symptoms off to withdrawal. Hope you find these resources helpful. Joel
I would agree that nicotine withdrawal is a few days of mild discomfort maximum. Generally smokers are addicted, though, so you do get cravings, but those are not acute withdrawal. They are usually hunger related.
Check out these resources: Craves and thoughts that occur over time: ntapblog.wordpress.com/craves-and-thoughts-that-occur-over-time/ Going back to normal after quitting: ntapblog.wordpress.com/going-back-to-normal-after-quitting/ Blood sugar issues: ntapblog.wordpress.com/blood-sugar-issues-when-quitting-smoking/
Here is one string that we had going at the Freedom from Nicotine board from back in 2007 when the original studies were released discussing how people who had suffered damage to the insula lost their desire to smoke: ffn.yuku.com/topic/11286/Insula-brain-region-responsible-for-craves.
Congratulations on three months Bala Koduri. I am glad that you found the resources helpful. Over time consider going though the resources on the pages whyquit.com/joels-videos/videos-related-to-the-implications-of-a-puff-once-you-have-quit/ and whyquit.com/joels-videos/relapse-prevention-resources/. They can help to keep your quit strong and secure over the long-term. If you ever have any specific questions or concerns please do not hesitate to get in touch. Joel
On day 20 and still feel like a zombie. Don't have any motivation to get things done and treat everyone like crap. I used to be someone that would go to the gym 5 or 6 times a week plus a full time job. Smoked on occasion and vaped heavily. I'm worried about relapsing but even more worried about messing up my life due to lack of focus or low mood.
Hello Jack: First, congratulations on 20 days. Now as far as for still feeling like a zombie. Be careful of writing off the symptoms you are having now to simply not having smoked. Check out these specific pages that all address potential issues that you may be experiencing: whyquit.com/joels-videos/life-goes-on-without-smoking/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/resources-regarding-mental-health-issues/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/going-back-to-normal-after-quitting/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/medication-adjustments-that-may-be-necessary-after-quitting-smoking/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/electronic-cigarette-users-having-a-harder-time-when-quitting-smoking/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/when-you-may-really-need-to-talk-to-your-doctor-about-quitting-smoking/
Jim Dimitrov,exactly what symptoms did you go through and for how long? I am in month 9 and I am still feeling weakness,tingling in my hands and feet,tighness in my chest mostly at night and all these symptoms last for about 3 days then ease off for a day or 2 then back on again.The weakness is mostly in my legs and feet.I walk for about 15 feet and have to sit down for a few minutes.My legs get very sore and stiff and my leg and feet skin hurts when i put any pressure on from bathing or shower.I was not feeling any of these symptoms before I quit smoking.I also have COPD,but I was actually able to walk for 5-10 minutes or more before I quit smoking.There are days I start to feel a little better and more energy,then it all starts again for a few days.Did you go through any of this?
Darrell, whether or not Jim or anyone else experienced these symptoms is not important. What is important is that you are experiencing ongoing symptoms and thinking that it is somehow a normal effect of your having quit smoking 9 months ago. Check out these resources: whyquit.com/wordpress/is-anyone-else-experiencing-the-symptom-of/
I stopped a week ago. 2 days ago I stopped using patches. Felt so sick yesterday. Nausea anxiety irritability. Had to use a patch today. Really wish I could stop feeling sick
Carolyn, my personal belief is that by using the patch you are really prolonging the withdrawal process. Here is a link to numerous resources I have explaining my views on this topic. joelspitzer.org/limitations-of-the-use-of-nicotine-replacement-products/
Joel Spitzer I completely agree with you. I was so desperate this morning and I just did not want to smoke. Wish I would have just muddled through. Maybe soon I can try it again without the patch. My husband used the same patch for like 5 days and then took it off. He said for him it was like a psychological thing I.e. He had the patch so in his head it was like there. He doesn't use anything now
Carolyn, check out the page ntapblog.wordpress.com/can-you-spare-about-an-hour-and-a-half-to-help-to-save-your-life/ It will provide you resources to get you started into an actual quit. Or, you could do the day by day videos discussed here th-cam.com/video/-Tp_rt5RNmc/w-d-xo.html
Joel Spitzer thank you Mr. Spritzer. I am going to watch. I've never been more serious about staying stopped than I am now. First people in my family have died from illnesses related to smoking. It's bad. Another thing is I want a baby and I know it wouldn't be fair to my child to be smoking when I conceive. Thank you for your videos
You are welcome Carolyn. Some of the resources will help to build on what you have already noted, the importance of quitting smoking as you have begun to realize from the effects it has already had on some of your family. Quitting smoking is really an effort to preserve your health and saving your life. As far as for quitting in hopes of one day having a baby--it is very helpful to understand the risks posed by smoking when pregnant. Here is a link to a string from the Freedom from Nicotine support site addressed to the issue: ffn.yuku.com/topic/26649 Also semi-related though is the video The importance of quitting for yourself th-cam.com/video/CwYQ6fq9ZCI/w-d-xo.html. It is definitely to the benefit of your future family and others who care about you that you quit smoking--but you are going to be the real primary beneficiary of your quit. The video highlights the importance of understanding that concept. By the way, you can just call me Joel.
It's been 7 weeks and no end in sight, I am crippled and disabled and have never felt so sick in my life. I feel like I have the flu, in poor health, had to quit. When will the anxiety, depression, chronic fatigue, headache and nausea stop?
Hello Janice: Sorry for the delay in getting back to you here. I had a technical problem with TH-cam where I did not see your comment here until last night. Here is a page I set up explaining the issue I was having: whyquit.com/joels-videos/i-am-seeing-comments-again/ The information on this videos reference page whyquit.com/joels-videos/does-nicotine-withdrawal-really-last-for-months-or-years/ addresses some of the issues you are raising here. Hope you saw that page when first looking at the video three weeks ago. Also, check out these two pages for they directly apply to your question here: whyquit.com/joels-videos/when-you-may-really-need-to-talk-to-your-doctor-about-quitting-smoking/ whyquit.com/joels-videos/resources-regarding-mental-health-issues/ Hope you find this information helpful. Joel
I started cold Turkey 2 hours ago please pray that I stay strong 🙏🙏smoker for over 30 years, father in heaven keep me strong please
Hello Its Charlie. Staying strong is not what is going to give you the best chance at quitting or staying quit--it is staying smart that will really help. Smart about nicotine addiction. Check out the resources on the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/resources-related-to-the-importance-of-being-smarter-than-nicotine-as-opposed-to-having-to-be-stronger/ that addresses this issue.
For basic information that will help you go through the resources on the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/can-you-spare-about-an-hour-and-a-half-to-help-to-save-your-life/
If you have any specific questions or concerns regarding smoking or quitting issues please feel free to get back in touch.
Joel
I had terrible withdrawal symptoms for more than 3 months when I quit smoking. I'd never go through this again so for this reason I'd never take another puff. I'm now quit for 15 months and I'm just now starting to feel the way I felt back when I was a never smoker. To anyone who's trying to quit I can say that if someone as hooked as me made it through then you can do it too. I was smoking 70 cigs a day and I'd wake in the middle of the night in order to smoke. So have faith people, listen to what mr. Spitzer says, and never take another puff.
Also, I wish you great smokeless hollydays anyone :)
+Nick Tamer While you may have had terrible symptoms for three months it was unlikely to have been "nicotine withdrawal" symptoms. Check out the videos "Going back to normal after quitting" th-cam.com/video/zUKBBcZ26BQ/w-d-xo.html and "Is this a symptom of quitting smoking?" Also I think you will appreciate the message in the video The advantage of having a difficult time when quitting smoking th-cam.com/video/45iUwpCjn3s/w-d-xo.html th-cam.com/video/Rw5jbjgRH7g/w-d-xo.html
+Joel Spitzer Thank you for your response. I don't thing there is a single one of your videos I haven't watch already at least once. I want to thank you again for all the support your videos gave me when I was trying to quit and also to wish you a great new year.
It took over 5 years after I quit smoking for me to stop dreaming about smoking. Now I don't think about it at all.
I stopped smoking last year, it took 10 months before my lungs felt tolerably ok, I had terrible withdrawal symptoms, couldn't sleep for a month
And do you know what? I would do it TWICE MORE to be able to finally claim that I am a non-smoker, never been so proud in my life 😁
Congratulations on your quit Geogina. While it may have taken months for your lungs to feel better, that is not so much a function of prolonged withdrawal as much as a process of healing of nerve cells and other tissues in the lung. The pages whyquit.com/joels-videos/learning-how-to-inhale/, whyquit.com/joels-videos/cilia/, whyquit.com/joels-videos/why-many-people-cough-more-after-quitting/ and whyquit.com/joels-videos/see-how-smoking-destroys-the-lungs/ all touch on this issue. Also, as far as for not sleeping well in the beginning, that too is not so much withdrawal as it is your body adjusting to a new normal. See the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/going-back-to-normal-after-quitting/. The first article on that page addresses the sleep adjustment issue. Also, at this point in time be careful not to write off any current or future symptoms you may encounter to withdrawal or even to having recently quit smoking. The page whyquit.com/joels-videos/life-goes-on-without-smoking/ addresses this issue. Your feeling of being proud is totally warranted, as covered in the material on the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/be-proud-that-you-quit-smoking/. As far as it would be worth going through it all over again two or more times, yes quitting would be worth it, but never allow yourself to think in terms of if you go back you will simply quit again. See the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/if-i-go-back-to-smoking-ill-just-quit-again/ addressing this issue. Just know that you will never have to go back to smoking or go through quitting again if this time you continue to stick to a personal commitment to never take another puff.
Joel
Yah me too ✋️ great
Anyone can quit if they want to bad enough!!! But, I’ve had severe depression and I’ve not smoked for 3 months. It is because of the lack of dopamine being released from hitting a cigarette.
So, yes it can take months to not have withdrawal symptoms.
I really don’t want to have a Dr give me a “pill” fix cuz then I’d have to get off of that.
Depression sucks!!!! But, I’m proud of quitting for 3 months.
Check out the following resources Stormy Girl. They discuss the difference between "withdrawal" issues and the processes of going back to "normal" after quitting.
whyquit.com/joels-videos/using-cigarettes-to-self-medicate-pre-existing-conditions/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/resources-regarding-mental-health-issues/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/going-back-to-normal-after-quitting/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/when-you-may-really-need-to-talk-to-your-doctor-about-quitting-smoking/
I say this from personal experience, but if you are feeling withdrawal symptoms past several weeks (physically, they peak in 1 - 3 days, but not uncommon to still feel "out of sorts" for a few weeks as your mind and body adjust and normalize) then there is something else going on and smoking just masked it or put a band-aide on it; maybe it's boredom in life, lack of purpose, lack of direction, anxiety, etc. We all feel these things from time to time, but the difference for an ex-smoker is that we attribute it to quitting smoking. From my perspective, those aren't withdrawal symptoms past a few weeks; those are other issues that need addressed. Sometimes addressing those issues can be as simple as finding a hobby that lights you up, sometimes finding tools to calm and ground yourself like QiGong, deep breathing, prayer, or meditation, and sometimes a licensed therapist might be what you need. Point being that as somebody who knows this struggle, I am pretty confident that if you are having "withdrawal symptoms" that are lasting months or years,... it's not the cigarettes/nicotine and there is help out there in all kinds of forms.
Started cold turkey just a few minutes ago.
Glad that you have found my resources. Being that you are just starting your quit, check out the resources on this page: ntapblog.wordpress.com/can-you-spare-about-an-hour-and-a-half-to-help-to-save-your-life/
I'm just over 18 months quit and it just feels normal to not smoke and I feel all the better for it. Thanks Joel your videos provided invaluable information in the early days of my quit
Nearly 2 years nicotine free thanks to you Joel. I owe my quit to you.
44yr smoker who quit 4yrs ago, cold turkey. I promise you, you will be glad you did. All of us were born non-smokers, so ask yourself, what did you do to occupy your time before cigarettes? Do it. You'll feel better, you'll look better, and you'll save a TON of money. I have ZERO desire to ever smoke again, ZERO.
You are right Joe, I quitted 8 days ago and the 3th and 4th were the breaking point for me. The 4th day around noon I actually decided to go buy tobaco cos I couldn't take it anymore, but somehow I got distracted with other things and went to bed without smoking. Next day the 5th I felt like a demon had just left my body. I woke up to a completely different reality, a sweet reality pretty much like the one I had when I was a kid and my body wasn't a slave to any substance. Yes I do get the cravings for a couple of minutes now and then, but having been through hell these cravings feel like a walk in the park. And you know what Joe? I think determination is the key word here. If you are determined to go through hell, to go to war against your biology and your habits you will definately win this battle. Cheers man.
Congratulations on eight days Enzo Maidana. Yes once you got past the peak withdrawal period symptoms ease up dramatically. The two pages that really illustrate this point are whyquit.com/joels-videos/the-importance-of-the-first-three-days-of-your-quit/ and whyquit.com/joels-videos/difference-between-physical-and-psychological-urges/. While that time period can be hard it is worth the effort that was put into it. Also the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/quitting-smoking-a-fate-worse-than-death/ is relevant. Also, while it was hard for you, in the long run that can be to your great advantage. The page whyquit.com/joels-videos/the-advantage-of-having-a-difficult-time-when-quitting-smoking/ explains why this is the case. You want to do all you can now to avoid having to go through quitting ever again. The pages whyquit.com/joels-videos/videos-related-to-the-implications-of-a-puff-once-you-have-quit/ and whyquit.com/joels-videos/relapse-prevention-resources/ can help with this goal. Again, congratulations and just know that all you need to insure that this is the last quit you will ever have to endure is now to simply stick to a personal commitment to never take another puff.
Joel
Dear Joel,
My heartfelt respect is for you. I cannot express in words how much I admire your thoughtful advise and constant effort to help people to get rid of a horrible addiction. Thank you so much.
3 Weeks completed today. NTAP for life.
I smoked for about 42 years and just stopped smoking one morning. I initially missed the "habit" of lighting a cigarette, but had no cigarettes or lighters/matches. I did not experience any excessive withdrawal symptoms as such and I also did not eat more or replaced it with another habit. You are 100% correct that there is not a "norm" and people withdraw differently. I still don't smoke!
almost 2 month after quitting still feeling withdrawals, went to doctor, everything is fine, and yet feel like crap still.
Hello Alex:
Be sure to check out all of the resources on the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/does-nicotine-withdrawal-really-last-for-months-or-years/. You said you went to the doctor and everything is fine. Make sure that the doctor actually checked for the things covered on that page, especially the materials covered on the pages:
Life goes on without smoking
Will this get better?
“I feel 100% better since I quit smoking!”
Resources regarding mental health issues
Medication adjustments that may be necessary after quitting smoking
Using cigarettes to self medicate pre-existing conditions
“Is this a symptom of quitting smoking?” (part 2)
4 days 2 hours 53 minuttes since last cigar, pulse rate normal, oxigen level normal, I can breath easily, no more Carbon monoxide, no nicotine, but sometimes headache and craving happen but I will not give up. We all can do this.
No smoking nor nicotine for over 4 years for me. I smoked for over 40 years. Can not imagine going back. I see people smoking and feel sorry for them and have, on occasion, told them how I quit with the help of Joel recordings. I down loaded the 11 hours of MP3 recordings and listened to them, over and over, several times. It worked for me.
I'm going into hour 48 as I watch this video. I made it three weeks last year, and I know it keeps getting a little easier every day. Thanks for the videos Joel!
You are welcome Ross. Try to watch some of the relapse prevention videos th-cam.com/play/PL4F05C03D0F9B86DB.html in the coming weeks. They can help to make this year's quit the last quit you will ever have to do.
I’m on my 3rd day of no cigarettes. Thanks for the video. I’m trying to stay away from them for good.
Hello Matthew:
Getting through the third day is key. As long as you get 72 hours under your belt with no nicotine being administered from any source at all, physical withdrawal will ease up. That is if it has not eased up already. Some people quit with minimal withdrawal. The page whyquit.com/joels-videos/every-quit-is-different/ addresses that issue.
To help solidify this quit, consider going through the resources on the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/can-you-spare-about-an-hour-and-a-half-to-help-to-save-your-life/
Then, over time go through the resources on the pages whyquit.com/joels-videos/videos-related-to-the-implications-of-a-puff-once-you-have-quit/ and whyquit.com/joels-videos/relapse-prevention-resources/
They can help you to secure this quit over the long-term.
If you have any specific questions or concerns please don't hesitate to get in touch.
Joel
Joel is correct. I thought it was going to be so much harder. Sure I had some anguish but half way in half way out. Episodes ended fast. watched another video of benefits.
46 years and i am on day 5. Getting better. I am a non smoker. period
Congratulations on five days Terry. Another video related to this topic is What is nicotine withdrawal really like? th-cam.com/video/WbEoMEpmMX4/w-d-xo.html
Also check out the video "What should I call myself." th-cam.com/video/pXuJCuTAM-A/w-d-xo.html
This is my 8th day smoke free. The cravings are still pretty tough but I try to drink lots of water when I have a craving and try my best to think about something else. I need to retrain my brain.
Congratulations on what must be nine days now. Sorry I was tied up yesterday and couldn't get to my messages here. Here are a couple of pages addressing issues you raised here.
Joel
whyquit.com/joels-videos/just-think-of-something-else/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/how-quitting-smoking-is-like-learning-to-ride-a-bicycle/
I smoked for 21 years, I’ve quit for 22 years, I always said that quitting was with out a doubt the best thing I’ve ever done for myself, I believe that in order to quit , you have to want to, you have to hate those cigarettes, you also must take an honest self appraisal, and figure out what events or circumstances might make you start again, a fight with your wife , or drinking, etc, you have to prepare your self b fore you quit, so when these urges occurs, these bad breaks happen , you don’t just say screw it, and start again,, I always told myself never ever smoke even one... as time went on my, urges and withdrawals got manageable, and things steadily got easier, I had become a non smoker, one thing that cigarettes do to a person is convince them that they can’t live without them, that’s the sick psychological trick it plays on people, once you reach the point in your quitting cycle where you realize that you can easily live without cigarettes, it’s a great personal achievement, now you have learned the truth, at that point you perceive yourself as a person who does not smoke, , never psych yourself into smoking one cigarette, and you’ll reach the goal
Here is the thing, at 2 months, you get cravings that will drive you crazy. But they happen seldomly, and only last for 5 minutes. And once you make it past the craving, they are gone. Not like the first few weeks when all you did was think about smoking every second of the day. Sometimes the cravings can be a little more than seldom, maybe twice a day. But again after 5 - 10 minutes they go away. It sucks, really really bad. But it's bearable. It never feels like the first couple of weeks. So relax, if you make it past a month, your going to be ok.
Hello Mike:
I am going to highlight a few points you raised here for the benefit of others reading your response.It may have been your experience that you were experiencing craves for a couple of months that were at the time driving you crazy. There were likely things that you could have done at the time to minimize if not even have eradicates those reactions but that is a moot point now. You got through them and as long as you never return to smoking you will never have to face them again.
I need to point out though that most people who quit don’t go through this kind of extended craving period if they take a few steps to deal with the thoughts that they have when first quitting.
Check out these resources on this issue:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/every-quit-is-different/
What is nicotine withdrawal really like? th-cam.com/video/WbEoMEpmMX4/w-d-xo.html
whyquit.com/joels-videos/fixating-on-a-cigarette/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/the-advantage-of-having-a-difficult-time-when-quitting-smoking/
Difference between physical and psychological urges: th-cam.com/video/_A8s7Pw7jA0/w-d-xo.html
As far as for simply stating that get trough the first month and you will be okay, check out these resources:
Complacency: th-cam.com/video/MZSktbwotI4/w-d-xo.html
"I got through a month without smoking--Boy do I deserve a cigarette for that!”: whyquit.com/joels-videos/boy-do-i-deserve-a-cigarette-for-that/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/craves-and-thoughts-that-occur-over-time/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/i-know-too-much-about-smoking-to-ever-be-able-to-relapse/
Again, what you experienced last time was worth the effort--no matter how hard that effort was. See whyquit.com/joels-videos/treat-quitting-smoking-as-if-you-are-fighting-for-your-life/. Again though, you will never have to experience quitting again as long as you continue to stick to a personal commitment to never take another puff.
Joel
It has been my experience Joel, I can only talk about my experience. I'm not trying to take away anything you teach or educate your followers. But sometimes former smokers can offer valuable insight for those who plan on quitting. Quitting is not easy. But it can be done, and people have done it. And as a non-smoker I can look back and say that it is tough to quit but rewarding at the same time, and it can be done. For me the cravings haven't totally gone away, but for me they are manageable, and I'm sure for most non smokers they are too. The most important thing you mention though is the commitment to never take another puff. That is without a doubt crucial. I have quite 2 times before, and both times I went back to smoking, thinking I can smoke just one cigarette here and there. NO NO NO NO. I can't. I must never ever smoke ever ever again. PERIOD.
You wrote, "Quitting is not easy. But it can be done, and people have done it."
Again, for many if not most people the statement "Quitting is not easy" can be true. But there are people who do find it easy.
Check out these additional resources on the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/what-is-nicotine-withdrawal-really-like/
Easy or hard though, quitting is worth the effort: whyquit.com/joels-videos/treat-quitting-smoking-as-if-you-are-fighting-for-your-life/
One other good page worth reading on the topic of quitting not being easy: whyquit.com/joels-videos/for-people-who-think-quitting-smoking-is-the-hardest-thing-they-have-ever-done/
My first time to see your video on YT. I found your website a few days ago. I'm Day 16 of the Quit and your videos helped get me through a few tough moments. So, thank you very much for that. I have no power over nicotine. I had a heart to heart with the Lord, about 23 days ago, regarding my nicotine habit. For a few days, I cut from 10 a day to 3 per day. My Quit Day was 9/17/2022. Hardest thing EVER. Man, I loved my nicotine fixes. Feels good to be smokefree. I'm scared to say "I'm a non-smoker". I'm even more scared to throw my cigs away, yet. I should have done it already, I know, but at this point I'm afraid to even touch a pack. It's a struggle, but something I asked for. I just want the mental urges to go away. I've been throught the Sads and more recently, the Mads. I'm trying to change my attitude. Just glad you are here.
Mine went for about 3 days but really about a week of depression and extreme irritability. I'm over it now. This is the second time I've been through this. The real danger of relapse is just how easy it is to get the tolerance and cravings under control. It just seems surreal like you could have done it at any time you want and that you're no longer susceptible to the addictive nature of nicotine. Then, after you start again, the addiction is right back to where it was before.
Joel it's because of your help through your website and videos I have successfully quit 20 years of smoking!
I am smoke free since over two years now!! Thanks to you and what you have been doing for humanity
Can't express through words how life is as a non smoker, life is so good now and I love myself!!
Smoking is an itch which never gets satisfied, I got tired of trying to fulfill that crave which never gets satisfied.. That's how one successfully quits any vice but to understand this simple philosophy of quitting, one needs a Guru like you who constantly finds out different ways to make realize this simple fact
I wish may God grant You Joel Spitzer a good life!
Congratulations on two plus years Sanjay. Glad to have been able to help. I do want to point out though that not everyone needs a Guru or any other kind of external help in order to quit smoking. I never want to leave people with the impression that quitting is impossible unless someone is to get some kind of professional help. The following resources all address this concept:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/i-couldnt-have-done-it-without-you/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/are-people-doomed-to-fail-if-they-dont-get-professional-help-to-quit-smoking/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/breaking-free-from-nicotines-grip-is-more-doable-than-most-people-think/
I also want to make sure that I have recently assembled two pages designed to help people who have quit to sustain their resolve over the long term. The pages are:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/relapse-prevention-resources/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/videos-related-to-the-implications-of-a-puff-once-you-have-quit/
Checking out one or two of the links a month on the pages can help keep any longer term quitter's resolve reinforced for years. A little extra reinforcement can be beneficial for any former smoker.
Once again, I am glad that you did find my resources helpful and if you ever have any other questions or concerns please don't hesitate to get in touch.
Joel
My last smoke was on 5/8/2017 and your video clip played a huge role in the beginning for me to stay quit. I’ve watched this video over 100 times among a few other ones. Thank you!
I wanted to thank you Joel, for all the time and effort you have put into these videos. Your videos have helped me quit and stay strong.
9 months smoke free. I've watched each of your videos at least twice lol. Yours has been the absolute best information I've received regarding a smoke free life , I really want to say thank you so much. My life has been fabulous since I've quit. and thank you for posting up a new video. something about listen to your passion about quitting is what helped me through my first 3 days. and I've never looked back.
One week out,cold turkey.No withdrawal symptoms.I just keep reminding myself how much my body appreciates what I’ve done,and the benefits quitting smoking has in store.To all of you out there who have recently quit,enjoy your new found freedom.It will only get better!Thank you Joel,for your inspiring message!
You are very welcome Brian. I am glad that you are finding the resources helpful. If you ever have any specific questions or concerns regarding smoking or quitting issues please don't hesitate to get back in touch.
Joel
Joel Spitzer
I will.Many thanks again!
Went from 20 to 30 a day to cold turkey. I tried everything else in the past I felt nicotine replacement made it harder and longer and never sucessful. At 3 days now and starting to get easier looking forward to a couple of weeks and hopefully the cravings will fully or mostly stop.
Congratulations on getting to your third day Sam. Getting past the three day mark is really significant. The page whyquit.com/joels-videos/the-importance-of-the-first-three-days-of-your-quit/ addresses the reason why. As far as for the cravings fully stopping, check out the resources below. Hope you find them helpful.
Joel
whyquit.com/joels-videos/will-i-ever-stop-thinking-of-cigarettes/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/difference-between-physical-and-psychological-urges/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/does-it-take-21-days-to-break-the-smoking-habit/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/how-long-before-i-dont-want-a-cigarette/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/craves-and-thoughts-that-occur-over-time/
I'm on my 3rd week and I haven't experienced any withrawal syndrome. I smoked for 15 years. Never felt this good in my life.
Congratulations on three weeks Levin. Check out the video What is nicotine withdrawal really like? th-cam.com/video/WbEoMEpmMX4/w-d-xo.html
Also good to watch for people who have no withdrawals are the videos Were you addicted? th-cam.com/video/pWcTkTmRn60/w-d-xo.html and Every quit is different th-cam.com/video/fYHkaGt-YhE/w-d-xo.html
the urge/need to cope with life will never end, but the actual withdrawal symptoms absolutely subside nearly completely after 6-7 days. any feeling after, is basically psychosomatic. not to diminish anyone's experience, but finding new ways to cope through sudden and intense emotions is necessary for everyone. Deep breathing, meditation, hydration, and exercise is surprisingly underrated/underutilized! You CAN take control of your life and be productive, whatever that may look like for YOU.
50 days smoke free withdrawal symptoms getting less everyday. Thank God ! I Will Never Smoke Again.
Congratulations on 50 days Ahkeeia. At this point in time withdrawal symptoms are likely long gone. What you may still be getting better though are many normal body functions are getting back to normal and you have likely broken most of the normal trigger circumstances that happen on most typical days. There are still new circumstances that you may encounter creating a few smoking thoughts, but these thoughts are a whole lot different than what you experienced in the early days of your quit. The following pages all address these different issues:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/difference-between-physical-and-psychological-urges/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/going-back-to-normal-after-quitting/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/will-i-ever-stop-thinking-of-cigarettes/
Also, over time go through the resources on these two pages:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/videos-related-to-the-implications-of-a-puff-once-you-have-quit/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/relapse-prevention-resources/
They can help to keep your motivation reinforced at those times when new thoughts or triggers do arise.
Many people, myself included, started smoking because we were feeling bad to begin with. When we stop smoking, we are no longer numb to our old problems. Chalking these issues up to withdrawal is destructive. Instead, we need to see quitting as a chance to finally address our underlying issues by seeing them clearly for once.
You may still think about smoking after a year or so....but it is totally ok. You think about it and you shake it off. I don't fight those thoughts anymore. July will be one full year I am nicotine free (cigarette free- 3 plus years). I am just having thoughts now, not cravings. I may feel some stress and I think, oh a cigarette would be nice about now.....then I remind myself how terrible I felt when I smoked, and even though I think about smoking, I know I will never do it. I can handle the fleeting daily thoughts. They do pass quickly and I forget about them. I am so happy I am not hooked on nicotine any longer!
Just hit my 4th day of quitting. I'm 16 and have been smoking a pack a day since I was 13, I'm feeling physically better today but not mentally and this video helped reassure me a lot. Thanks
Congratulations on making it to your fourth day Liam. I am glad that you are finding my resources helpful. Check out the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/the-importance-of-the-first-three-days-of-your-quit/. I think you will also find it reassuring. Also check out the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/understanding-the-emotional-loss-experienced-when-quitting-smoking/. I think you will appreciate it since you mentioned feeling physically better but no mentally better yet. Another relevant page would be whyquit.com/joels-videos/difference-between-physical-and-psychological-urges/ Hope you find these additional pages helpful too.
Joel
I am on the 6th day of my quit. You are right, the first 2-3 days are the worst. During that period the peak withdrawal symptoms literally leave your entire physical and psychological being throbbing with a desire for a cigarette. But things do fade away pretty rapidly after that. Additionally, I was helped by starting my quit with pneumonia and an infected lung. Staying off the cigarettes has undoubtedly helped clear that condition up more quickly.
Sorry its taken me so long to reply to you. I had a problem with comments on my channel not showing up for the past month. They all just appeared today. Here is a page explaining the problem that occurred: www.whyquit.com/joels-videos/i-am-seeing-comments-again
Again, sorry it has taken me so long to get back to you.
I quit 8 months ago, and sometimes I still have the urge, but it's easy to forget about and carry on.
Cravings are personal. Everyone is different... When you are ready and really "WANT" to quit, you will quit.... I tried to quit smoking several times and after careful consideration and reflection I discovered I didn't really want to quit. I was just looking for some type of miracle which does not happen... Keep Trying! When you get to that point of WANTING TO REALLY QUIT, you will without fear, excuses, and even cravings will be easier!
It’s true
It’s really hard for 3/4 hard and then after that it’s easy
I think people enjoy the self pity and drama and pretend it lasts longer
Some people don't even find it hard for those first few days--at least not as hard as they anticipated it was going to be. Pages related to this are:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/every-quit-is-different/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/what-is-nicotine-withdrawal-really-like/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/for-people-who-think-quitting-smoking-is-the-hardest-thing-they-have-ever-done/
Also, it is important to note that people who are using nicotine replacement therapies often do experience extended withdrawals. Resources related to this are:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/prolonging-nicotine-withdrawal/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/comparing-quitting-smoking-experiences-with-others-on-youtube-blogs/
1 week then it's gone, the2 first days are awfull but after the first week, and the 21th day you really beggin to feel "free"
It is important to note that some people never have a hard time quitting, even in the first days of their quit. Check out the video Every quit is different th-cam.com/video/fYHkaGt-YhE/w-d-xo.html. Also touching on the topic is the video What is nicotine withdrawal really like? th-cam.com/video/WbEoMEpmMX4/w-d-xo.html
Thank you Joel for all you do.
2 years for me! :)
being told that I would have symptoms for months and years is the reason I caved in last time because it gave me the impression that I would be experiencing peak withdrawal for years. Anyways On my 3rd day of a new quit and won't be discouraged this time though, anyways thank you for making this video.
I had my last cigarette Dec 17th 2017 I picked up again on mothers day 2018 now I am on my way again to be smoke free I am on my day 2. I sure miss being a smoke free person. I will not give up. thanks for this video.
Hello Mary:
Here are a few resource pages more related to your comment here than this particular video:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/videos-related-to-the-implications-of-a-puff-once-you-have-quit/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/neither-side-is-perfect/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/boy-do-i-miss-smoking/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/youve-relapsed-now-what/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/can-you-spare-about-an-hour-and-a-half-to-help-to-save-your-life/
I'm at day 3 I was smoking American spirit with no filters for about out 4 years, after quitting for 6 years the first time, it's not too bad I get about 3-5 urges a day but it's getting easier, the longer time goes, stay strong people work out I get up every morning and go walk.
Congratulations on getting here to day three Imu. It is a very important and pivotal day in the quitting process. The page whyquit.com/joels-videos/the-importance-of-the-first-three-days-of-your-quit/ explains why. Here are a few other pages relating to issues you raised here in your post:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/additive-free-cigarettes/ (discusses American Spirit)
whyquit.com/joels-videos/lost-long-term-quits/ (considering you had once quit for six years)
whyquit.com/joels-videos/will-i-ever-stop-thinking-of-cigarettes/ (addresses how the urges do become easier to deal with over time)
whyquit.com/joels-videos/resources-related-to-the-importance-of-being-smarter-than-nicotine-as-opposed-to-having-to-be-stronger/ (addresses the importance of staying smarter than nicotine as opposed to having to stay stronger)
whyquit.com/joels-videos/incorporating-exercise-after-quitting/
Once again, congratulations on getting to your third day Imu. To make this quit the last one you will ever have to go through again is as simple now as continuing to stick to a personal commitment to never take another puff.
Joel
I think some of it can be psychosomatic. You have to overcome nicotine addiction in different situations and, of course, it causes anxiety or maybe even other physical symptoms. It is not like it is effortless, but it is totally manageable.
Hello Ilza:
Here are a few pages addressing issues you raised here:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/difference-between-physical-and-psychological-urges/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/how-quitting-smoking-is-like-learning-to-ride-a-bicycle/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/smoking-triggers/
Sorry, that should have been "Hello Ilze"
Even after quitting for a 2 or 3 months, the smell of smoke from people walking by is still nice. Will this ever go away, and when? Although the "urge" to smoke gets smaller everyday after quitting, smelling cigarette smoke is still annoyingly attractive. I need this to go away and to know it will disappear one day.
Some people like the smell forever but most don't. I have seen people who liked the smell for months and sometimes longer, then to one day get a whiff of smoke, get almost nauseous and then hate it forever after that. Regarding smells though, check out the video Does everything smell and taste better after you quit smoking?th-cam.com/video/Le1AZS8iyhY/w-d-xo.html
i have stoppen 23 days ago and the fist days were hard but not as bad as everyone would make you believe . just drink enough water avoid to much coffie and dont skip breakfast and you will be fine
Not even 30 seconds in and I absolutely love listening to this man speak
Well, I have lots and lots of more seconds for you to hear. I hope you find each of them helpful. If you have any specific questions or concerns regarding smoking or quitting issues feel free to get in touch. I will point you to plenty of seconds, minutes or even hours of information that can help you to quit or stay quit.
yeah, the most discouraging thing i have seen since working up to quitting is this exact thing. i've been terrified of withdrawals, don't wanna be more depressed after quitting. i'm already underweight and can't handle getting anxiety or feeling nauseous or missing meals, afriad the sheer withdrawals themselves might cause a ton of other issues. idk i wanna quit so bad...but terrified of the drop in dopamine and physical withdrawals. i just cut caffeine out after abusing it most of my life and the withdrawals from that cold turkey had me feeling i needed to go to the ER...after seeing what getting off caffeine did..i'm scared to quit nicotine.
I'm at the 2 month mark of quitting and still have strong cravings but they are gradually getting less intense. I feel it's more mental than physical. I was a 40+ year smoker at 2 packs a day at the end.
hey . I've been a smoker since I was 17 yrs .. I'm 35 now and just recently I quit smoking . It's been 9 days so far and I'm scared . The withdrawal , the symptoms I'm getting are really bad , my head for example . its like my mind is in a "vice grip " . the pain , nausea , mild headaches , and trying to focus on certain tasks have been a problem for me since then . my question is ....is this normal , for me to feel this way after I quit ? , cause it hurts .
Hello Michael. Once past the 72 hour mark of a cold turkey quit it is no longer safe or prudent to write off these kind of symptoms to simple withdrawal. Check out the resources on the page ntapblog.wordpress.com/will-this-get-better/
Check in with your doctor to get to the bottom line of why these symptoms are now happening.
Just do it. Withdrawals are nothing compared to the pain and suffering we go through as smokers. You can do this.
I gave up smoking 2 years ago and still suffer a bit. No cravings but physical things like sensitive teeth, funny sensations at the top of the chest/bottom of throat and a sudden need to breath in deep every so often. Now it isn't like this 24/7 just every so often but still enough to be noticed. Should go to the doctors really.
Yes if you are having any kind of symptoms that concern you its long past the time that you should be writing them off to having quit smoking two years ago, The following pages address this issue:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/life-goes-on-without-smoking/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/when-you-may-really-need-to-talk-to-your-doctor-about-quitting-smoking/
I've felt some mild cravings on some odd occasions - and that is almost 28 years after I quit 😅- they rapidly go though- within a minute or 2
Yes it does (is) last(ing) longer than a month, I'm on month 2, and my anxiety is out of control, it's the absolute worse, it's crippling and debilitating and paralyzing. My anxiety started day 3 and has lasted every week 3-7 days a week. No one told me this was possible, no one ever said that it would completely change me, my personality, my life etc.
Congratulations on two months Tizzy Izzy. Even though the problems you are feeling started shortly after you had quit smoking they are not from nicotine withdrawal. There is some other underlying factor at play.
Check out the following resources. They discuss the difference between "withdrawal" issues and the processes of going back to "normal" after quitting.
whyquit.com/joels-videos/using-cigarettes-to-self-medicate-pre-existing-conditions/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/resources-regarding-mental-health-issues/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/going-back-to-normal-after-quitting/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/will-this-get-better/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/when-you-may-really-need-to-talk-to-your-doctor-about-quitting-smoking/
There is one other variable that may be at play that may not be from an physiological basis but more now because of situational circumstances that we are currently going through--the global pandemic and the subsequent lockdowns that many people are experiencing. See the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/resources-regarding-interaction-between-nicotine-and-stress/. The first article on that page explains how times like this can often result in the kind of anxiety you are referring to happening in recent quitters, as well as current smokers and people who had never smoked a day in their life. The only difference is that the recent quitters often blame the reactions on having quit smoking as opposed to the actual cause.
Again though, if the anxiety is causing you such a major disruption you should be talking to your doctor about possible help that he or she may give you.
Joel
Two weeks I feel terrible i don’t crave nicotine but I’m fatigued sometimes it feels hard to breath I have a foggy mind I’m easily irritated but my doctors say there is nothing wrong with me. I’m so scared that I will never feel normal.
Hello Benito. Before I address your question here, can you specify two things. First, are you totally off of all forms of nicotine for two weeks now? I ask this because people often write me saying that they have quit smoking, but at time it turns out that these people are still using nicotine replacement products or quit smoking medications that often can be responsible for ongoing symptoms. The other question is are you on any other medications for any other conditions, medications you were using regularly while you were still actively smoking?
Also, do you have any history of vaping and if so are you totally off of all vaping products--nicotine based or not?
Thank you for the help, Mr. Spitzer. I've been on the quitting journey for three weeks, starting on week four as of today. I've noticed the anxiety, depression, and all other symptoms have persisted, so I think it's time for a little Mental Help from a local professional. I also thankfully have my father to talk to before that time arrives, and these videos have definitely been a great help. You don't make any of this out to be a dire, horrible thing that's going to take a miracle to get over. You tell it straight, and that alone has been helping me manage this even better. Thank you again Mr. Spitzer, I'll keep researching your articles and get myself some help asap.
Congratulations on your three week quit Free HD McGee. Glad that you are going to check in with your doctor. Here are a few pages addressing this issue:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/resources-regarding-mental-health-issues/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/when-you-may-really-need-to-talk-to-your-doctor-about-quitting-smoking/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/smoking-and-cabin-fever/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/life-goes-on-without-smoking/
I included the last couple of pages because depending on where you are in the world at this point in time, there is a lot of extra stress, anxiety and depression happening because of the situation many people are in because of the current pandemic. Meaning many current smokers, former smokers and never smokers are having more mental health issues. It can be hard to determine the true underlying cause of a specific episode which is why it is so advantageous to get an assessment from a professional who can work with you who has access to all of the pertinent information to what is going on in your specific circumstances.
Hopefully you will get a handle on the current issues that may be at play. Know also that quitting smoking has the full potential of minimizing even mental health issues that could happen over your lifetime. The page whyquit.com/joels-videos/quitting-smoking-can-make-you-calmer-happier-and-healthier/ addresses this issue.
If there is ever any other specific questions or concerns you have regarding smoking or quitting issues please feel free to get back in touch. Once again, congratulations on your three weeks.
Joel
Anxiety and cravings have been bothering me for months now, people told me it would be over un a couple of weeks, lies!
Juanjo, be careful writing off all anxiety that you may be experiencing now to simply being a result of you having stopped smoking. We are living in extraordinary times with the pandemic and the resulting change of lifestyle that many people are experiencing throughout the world. See that page whyquit.com/joels-videos/resources-regarding-interaction-between-nicotine-and-stress/. The first article discusses how certain circumstances can cause former smokers to feel more anxious after quitting smoking. What is important to note from the first article on that page is how current smokers and never smokers may also be feeling much of the same way at the same time. Also see the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/life-goes-on-without-smoking/.
As far as for craving a cigarette months after quitting, see the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/craves-and-thoughts-that-occur-over-time/
One other thing that I need to point out. Some people contact me months after quitting complaining about ongoing craves or ongoing withdrawal symptoms. Some of the time though these are people who did quit smoking but may still be using other nicotine products like nicotine replacement products, vaping products or smokeless tobacco products. These people are indeed still experiencing withdrawal. These pages address this particular situation:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/prolonging-nicotine-withdrawal/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/comparing-quitting-smoking-experiences-with-others-on-youtube-blogs/
okay. withdrawal only lasts a week or two. why are there so many people that are 2, 3 or 4 years smoke-free commenting this ?
The videos Come share your strength, come recognize your vulnerabilities th-cam.com/video/GIloKURIIic/w-d-xo.html, "I'll come for reinforcement when I need it" th-cam.com/video/CiIOvdMZ7us/w-d-xo.html and "I know too much about smoking to ever be able to relapse" th-cam.com/video/HMU8ON0G4G0/w-d-xo.html explain some of the reasons people come back, or benefit greatly from coming back periodically to reinforce their quits.
I was a heavy Tobacco user , chewing one , for 7 years , and i quit cold turkey without any withdrawal symptoms, instead i saw improvements in my over all health every single day. Please quit asap guys.
Yeah it can last for weeks. For me I quit 2 weeks ago but I still feel withdrawal symptoms. At night I feel urges to smoke and can’t sleep easily.
Hello Roy:
Congratulations on your two week quit. If I am interpreting your comment here correctly, you are saying that your withdrawal symptoms at two weeks are urges at night and not sleeping easily. If these are indeed what you are thinking of as withdrawal, see the pages whyquit.com/joels-videos/sleep-disruptions-and-adjustments-after-quitting-smoking/ and whyquit.com/joels-videos/going-back-to-normal-after-quitting/. Also, the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/possible-changes-in-caffeine-tolerance/ might be relevant here.
As far as for urges to smoke at night, check out these resources:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/difference-between-physical-and-psychological-urges/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/i-want-one/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/just-think-of-something-else/
If you are somehow referring to other physical symptoms that are ongoing--be careful to writing off everything you feel to having quit smoking. The pages whyquit.com/joels-videos/life-goes-on-without-smoking/ and whyquit.com/joels-videos/when-you-may-really-need-to-talk-to-your-doctor-about-quitting-smoking/ address other symptoms that people may have after quitting.
6 days nicotine free, physical withdrawals seems to be gone, mentally I seem a little more irritable than normal. Cravings are only really heavy after I eat meals
Congratulations on six days Zachary. Here are a couple of pages addressing your irritability and and one page with lots of resources that explain why it is quite typical to still get occasional thoughts or cravings over time:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/new-reactions-to-anger-after-quitting-smoking/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/understanding-the-emotional-loss-experienced-when-quitting-smoking/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/craves-and-thoughts-that-occur-over-time/
I hope you find these resources helpful.
Joel
Going on 13 days now!!!
Congratulations on 13 days Zachary. Here is a page with a message I used to share with my clinic graduates on their 13th day of their quit. (Clinic started on a Tuesday and graduation was the second Monday)
whyquit.com/joels-videos/getting-on-with-your-life-after-you-quit-smoking/
Yea don’t say it can’t last months either. I used to 50-60 mg of nicotine daily. And I’m 2 1/2 months in quitting and this feels awful. Worse than the first 3 days. I’m pretty sure it’s Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome so don’t act like it doesn’t exist either.
Hello Camilo:
You really need to go through the materials on the resource page for this video: whyquit.com/joels-videos/does-nicotine-withdrawal-really-last-for-months-or-years/
Especially relevant is this link on that page: whyquit.com/joels-videos/life-goes-on-without-smoking/
Writing off your ongoing symptoms to nicotine withdrawal is a very dangerous tactic to be taking for you may be overlooking an independent problem that really needs medical attention.
It has been 7 weeks fo rme. Ive been to the doctor. Everything is fine. My symptoms are debilitating. Headaches, brain fog, awake at night, fatigue, vision blur, emotional roller coaster. Sometimes I feel better. Then it gets really bad.
I couldnt handle it a few times now while quitting and would smoke and it all dissaptes. Until I try quit again.
You talk much like this reality is questionable and anoher cause than quitting. I am suffering with it and healthy on all other accounts....and there is scientific reports showing it does happen.
Its just not like this for everyone.
Hello Nathan:
You wrote, "I couldnt handle it a few times now while quitting and would smoke and it all dissaptes.”
If I am interpreting this correctly, you have not been quit for seven weeks-you have been trying to quit for seven weeks. Every time you take that first drag after having quit you are in essence starting over again. Either you are starting smoking or starting quitting. Using this strategy then indeed withdrawal could last for weeks, months, years or decades.
If you were indeed totally off all nicotine for many weeks and were still feeling the symptoms you described, you need to follow-up again with your doctor. I am not sure if you went through the resources pages attached to this video. Here are ones that I hope you do go through now, as well as a few others that are worth mentioning:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/when-you-may-really-need-to-talk-to-your-doctor-about-quitting-smoking/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/using-cigarettes-to-self-medicate-pre-existing-conditions/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/going-back-to-normal-after-quitting/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/i-know-i-am-going-to-gain-weight-if-i-quit-smoking/ (Title says weight but video covers more than that one issue)
whyquit.com/joels-videos/you-know-smoking-two-or-three-cigarettes-is-better-than-having-smoked-two-or-three-packs/
Actually, being that your symptoms are debilitating, you should check back in with your doctor either way.
Thank you for your referenced videos and thoughts. They are very informative.
To be honest my smoking pattern has been on and off. I would smoke when I came to town and met friends (on holidays), Then go away and not smoke and just worked through the withdrawals. Over time the withdrawals seemed to continue for longer and longer until Id return and smoke again and the symptoms always go. Ive not smoked more than a pack a day when I was smoking and that is extremely rare. I have never used patches or medication either.
Since the additional symptoms of headache, fatigue, emotional swings etc slowly emerging. It has become much more debilitating during detox periods and effected my working periods too much. I decided to quit a few times but returning to the same social scene proved difficult. Then I understood I was very addicted and I didnt want to lose my job.
So Ive decided its simply no longer worth my time to smoke on return trips. Its been 7 weeks now. I am certain I wont be smoking again. It’s a mindset that I am worth better and Im just not interested anymore. The symptoms are continually lessening every day (but do swing in intensity a little interim where it can, some days, still impede my activity considerably). But at this rate of reduction of the symptoms. I still suspect it will be a like period yet for the symptoms to diminish entirely. But this of course is a guess.
Ive had kidney, liver, blood glucose, hormone profile, blood profile, immune profile etc and everything seems fine every time. Even had a PET scan and I seem cancer free. I am pretty comforted everything else does seem ok. The doctor just says to ride it out as my body irs running fine and offers patches which Im not interested in as it just seems like purging the patch nicotine would draw the symptoms out for longer on top of what my body is already detoxing.
If there are any tests you recommend given my history I will follow it up for sure. Thanks for your recorded thoughts and insights on You tube. On behalf of myself and many others who suffer from this highly addictive substance to find much benefit in watching them.
Regards,
Nathan.
I am assuming they checked thyroid then with your hormone screen. I talk about this issue in the video on the whyquit.com/joels-videos/i-know-i-am-going-to-gain-weight-if-i-quit-smoking/ mentioned above.
The going back to normal page whyquit.com/joels-videos/going-back-to-normal-after-quitting/ addresses a few other issues to watch out for--like finding a normal eating pattern (normal for you as a former smoker as opposed to what was normal when you were an active smoker). Also I think that page covered caffeine related issues. If not, check out this page: whyquit.com/joels-videos/possible-changes-in-caffeine-tolerance/
Also, you did not mention if you are on any medications for other conditions. If so, check out the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/medication-adjustments-that-may-be-necessary-after-quitting-smoking/
I am glad that you are thinking more now about not smoking at certain times like on trips. I am going to suggest that over time you go through the resources on these two pages:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/relapse-prevention-resources/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/videos-related-to-the-implications-of-a-puff-once-you-have-quit/
Keeping a quit going is oh so much easier than ever having to start a quit over again, and, if for some reason your adjustment periods is longer than most, you really don't want to have to go through it over and over again. To insure that this is indeed the last time you ever have to deal with quitting and its side effects again is as simple this time as now sticking to a personal commitment to never take another puff.
Joel
Thankyou yet again.
Im actually very healthy (which is odd for someone with this habit I guess).
All superfoods. High nutrition. No caffeine. Sprouted vegan foods. Totally nutritionally calculated. No other medications. Thyroid was good. Ex naturopath.
I think I have simply dabbled too much with my internal chemistry.
Possibly with my intestinal microbiome.
The on again off again factor may have just played with it too much more than others who smoked continuously perhaps.
Who knows. Either way its certainly stopping this time. I actually hate the stuff now after going through this. No point being so healthy while smoking. Too much else to live for than feeling like this. All I can say to others is get out now while you can. You dont know where smoking can lead you so dont gamble with your quality of life. Its simply not worth the risk. Play smart and you know what move that is.
Thanks again for all your thoroughly informative support :)
Withdrawals go away in a few days. But most smokers are just weak willed. 95% of beginner smokers are teens with no self esteem. So do you really think these kind of people have a high chance of achieving anything that is slightly challenging? Nope. The reason why the quitting rate is so low is because smoking attracts the kind of people with no self esteem or willpower to begin with. If you were to give nicotine to the entire population 90% of them would find quitting very easy.
Cold hard truth. Don't take a puff of your "friend's" nic stick to try to fit in kids....its the beginner of a low quality of life for you! Instead be proud of who you are and lead the way rather than follow others!
Been a while Joel. Hope you are very well!
+Lee Vuitton (IRCXDS) Yes I have been fine. Just after well over 300 videos it is hard to come up with topics that I have not covered before.
Good info mate, I am on day 5 smoke free and I only really felt withdrawals for the first 2 days. There were a few on the 3rd day but it was more just thoughts of having a smoke rather than a physical craving. Sleep and appetite are still out of whack but I know it will sort itself out soon. I encourage anyone who wants to quit to listen to this man and know he is telling the truth. I was dreading the withdrawals but it was a false fear. Also your attitude towards the habit plays a huge part. When you are fed up with the weight of the smoking addiction, you can actually feel mad enuogh at nicotine that you will never touch it again come hell or high water. Take that step towards a better life as soon as you can and stop drugging yourself with nicotine and all the other associated rubbish in modern cigarettes, you will never look back.
From personal experience! I always said that to give up smoking cold turkey is about three days, three weeks, three months. I’ve since read some thing that seems to back this up. I’ve found it almost easy after three days, easy after three weeks and hardly worth thinking about after three months! Those damn initial three days are so hard! This is just my opinion from my experience and Joel is the one with the knowledge and science to back it up!
The trouble with me is I’m a bit like Mark Twain!
It’s always anger that starts my smoking again, which is rather pathetic and stupid!
I’m coming up to 13 days cold turkey.
Congratulations on your thirteen days James. Here are a few resources addressing issues you raised here today:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/the-terrible-3s/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/does-it-take-21-days-to-break-the-smoking-habit/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/change-of-season-triggers-the-spring/ (There are also pages for fall, winter and summer. Seasonal changes are often responsible for "three month" triggers that can occur)
whyquit.com/joels-videos/predestined-bad-days-after-quitting-2/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/new-reactions-to-anger-after-quitting-smoking/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/smoking-does-not-help-you-overcome-stress/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/past-successful-quits/
Also, seriously consider utilizing the following two pages to help prevent relapsing this time:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/videos-related-to-the-implications-of-a-puff-once-you-have-quit/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/relapse-prevention-resources/
Joel Spitzer Thanks, Joel! That’s really good of you! It’s three weeks today! You do so much work for people giving up smoking and therefore must save so many lives! Thank you so much!
You are very welcome James. If you ever have any specific questions or concerns regarding smoking or quitting issues please feel free to get back in touch.
Joel
Joel Spitzer Thanks, Joel, it’s all really appreciated!
On my 4th day cold turkey. Glad I found this video. Straight to the point and useful information. I was so confused and paranoid about not fully recovered for more than a year and stuff. Thank you again
Love from india
I accidentally erased a comment and my reply on this string. Don't have a way to contact the individual who wrote it. The person had written something to the effect of "Yes it does, for even after being off for some time period she still had occasional cravings for cigarettes. I had responded with something to the effect that having "cravings" after extending time periods after quitting does not equate to having physical withdrawals from nicotine, and then referring her to my resource page ntapblog.wordpress.com/craves-and-thoughts-that-occur-over-time/. I explained why this was an important difference for I don't want people who are experiencing true physical symptoms that may be indicative a problems that may need medical attention to be writing them off to some form of extended or delayed nicotine withdrawal effect.
She had written back a thank you and said that she now understood the point the video was making. When she had written the original comment and then the reply there were duplicate entries and so I tried to delete the duplicate. In doing so though I actually took out the original too. In the event that she comes back to the video I didn't want her to think that I had deleted her comment on purpose.
I quit almost seven months ago and I still have dreams of smoking cigarettes and cigarette cravings. It's awful, but once I overcome them, I realize how bad it would be go back.
Hello Caleb:
Dreaming about smoking after having quit is really very common. See the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/dreams-of-smoking/ that addresses this issue.
As far as for craving still happening, check out these pages:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/difference-between-physical-and-psychological-urges/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/craves-and-thoughts-that-occur-over-time/
As far as for realizing how bad it would be to go back to smoking, check out the resources on these pages:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/ive-relapsed-and-i-hate-it/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/videos-related-to-the-implications-of-a-puff-once-you-have-quit/
Congratulations on your seven months. I hope you find these additional resources helpful.
Joel
4 months without smokeing. still have urges now and then, however, it is very much worth it!
Check out the resources at ntapblog.wordpress.com/craves-and-thoughts-that-occur-over-time/
They address this issue.
Thanks so much!
You are welcome Sam.
Tragically, the emphasis on Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (or PAWS) is a big part of many boards dealing with drug withdrawal these days, especially from alcohol. It can happen of course, as different drugs present different recovery problems, especially for people with coexisting issues, like anxiety or depression for example. But as Joel rightly points out, for the majority of nicotine addicts, once the initial withdrawal starts to ease off by day three or four, things improve pretty rapidly. So, a few days of feeling "blah" and maybe two weeks of getting the bulk of relearning out of the way. And then you feel oh so much better. It may take a few months to experience all those odd situations which might trigger a thought of smoking (like a funeral, for some weird reason) but no way does life drag on with constant nicotine related angst, or a brain that still so out of whack to the point of being noticeable, that's just ridiculous. No, you feel great. It took me a few goes to finally kick the habit (tobacco in joints was always my downfall all those years ago) so I've had a few of those horrible three days off the smokes to get through. Not once did I or anyone I know have PAWS issues weeks later, let alone months or years.
Must add that the whole PAWS scare also falls into that helpless victim trap that is especially common with alcoholics and the twelve step program's mindset..."I'm powerless to stop drinking" or "I need a higher power to help me". Rubbish. You need knowledge, understanding and a bit of backbone. YOU can do it; you don't need an invisible friend to hand your responsibilities onto; you certainly don't need to be told you are helpless, only babies fill that role and even they learn pretty darn quick how to get you to do what they want.
Sorry its taken me so long to reply to you. I had a problem with comments on my channel not showing up for the past month. They all just appeared today. Here is a page explaining the problem that occurred: www.whyquit.com/joels-videos/i-am-seeing-comments-again
Again, sorry it has taken me so long to get back to you.
I packed up smoking over 25 years ago, but when I smell smoke I get mild cravings, but they quickly pass and I am not tempted to light up
Congratulations on 25 years Keith. Here are a few pages related to what you are saying here:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/will-i-eventually-not-like-the-smell-of-cigarette-smoke/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/tell-a-newbie-how-many-seconds-a-day-you-want-a-cigarette/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/ill-have-to-use-willpower-for-the-rest-of-my-life-not-to-smoke/
I smoked a pack a day for 37 years and I quit almost 2 years ago. I mostly don't even think about it anymore except after eating. I still get the after diner cravings. Many times after I finish a meal I think, "A cigarette sure would be good right now".
Congratulations on almost two years A Watchman. As far as for getting the thought of "A cigarette sure would be good right now", check out the following pages:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/the-fallacy-of-good-cigarettes/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/i-want-one/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/craves-and-thoughts-that-occur-over-time/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/just-think-of-something-else/
I'm worried it's been 24 days and I still feel pain all over the left side of my body .. and a small swollen near my neck, I have no energy at all I'm so tired ... this is normal?
Hello beast c89:
The symptoms you are describing are not in any way normal and not ones associated with quitting, especially 24 days into a quit. You need to go to your doctor.
Related pages:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/when-you-may-really-need-to-talk-to-your-doctor-about-quitting-smoking/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/life-goes-on-without-smoking/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/will-this-get-better/
As the first two weeks progressed the cravings became less frequent and less severe.
Today is 14 weeks without a smoke for me. I still have bad withdrawals all day everyday. Everyone is different.
Hello OzricSpacefolk:
You say you are without a smoke but didn't clarify if you are off of all sources of nicotine. This is an extremely important distinction for if you are in fact using some form of nicotine you will indeed be in withdrawal everyday. The page whyquit.com/joels-videos/prolonging-nicotine-withdrawal/ addresses this issue.
Lets say though that this is not the case, that you are indeed off of all nicotine. Now its important to know what you mean by withdrawal. Are you having specific physical symptoms or are you saying that you constantly want to smoke? Those are different issues. If specific symptoms, you need to get them checked out for if this is what is happening there is some other issue going on causing them that needs to get determined. You are playing a very dangerous game if writing off any ongoing physical symptoms to simple withdrawal. The additional information on this video's resources page (whyquit.com/joels-videos/does-nicotine-withdrawal-really-last-for-months-or-years/) addresses this kind of concern. Also related would be the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/when-you-may-really-need-to-talk-to-your-doctor-about-quitting-smoking/
If it is a matter of constantly wanting to smoke--this is a different issue. Pages addressing this kind of problem are:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/i-want-one/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/fixating-on-a-cigarette/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/boy-do-i-miss-smoking/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/resources-regarding-the-advantage-of-quitting-with-a-positive-attitude/
One more page worth mentioning here is whyquit.com/joels-videos/everyone-is-different/
Hope you find these resources helpful.
Joel
Its been more than a month now, I haven't smoke after smoking for more than 15years.
I felt if you can control your urge for first four/five dayas then its becomes easier to avoid. The best way don't think about it. Go for a cycling, swimming, gym. Keep yourself busy and finally you will not realize that you are out of it.
Congratulations on your month quit bitupan21. Here are a few resources addressing topics you raised here:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/just-think-of-something-else/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/incorporating-exercise-after-quitting/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/crutches-to-quit-smoking/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/how-to-do-nothing-without-a-cigarette/
Two other pages I recommend for people who are off smoking to go through slowly over time are:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/videos-related-to-the-implications-of-a-puff-once-you-have-quit/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/relapse-prevention-resources/
They can help you to secure your quit over the long-term.
Hope you find these resources helpful.
Joel
I quit chewing 5 days ago. I'm through the fog. I'm not having cravings. Everything is going great, even the irritability. What isnt going great is my insomnia. I CANT sleep. I hate this. Why cant I sleep?
Congratulations on five days Thrash McNash. Here is a page that discusses sleep disruption issues: whyquit.com/joels-videos/sleep-disruptions-and-adjustments-after-quitting-smoking/. Also check out the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/going-back-to-normal-after-quitting/ that discusses this issue.
The fog that you referred to as getting better is explained here: whyquit.com/joels-videos/disorientation-that-may-occur-when-first-quitting-smoking/
Since you also mentioned the initial irritability and no longer having cravings--check out these pages:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/understanding-the-emotional-loss-experienced-when-quitting-smoking/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/new-reactions-to-anger-after-quitting-smoking/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/difference-between-physical-and-psychological-urges/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/smoking-triggers/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/craves-and-thoughts-that-occur-over-time/
day 3 was awfull , day 7 i have no withdrawal symptoms whatsoever , seeing a cig or seeing people smoke doesn't do anything to me either , if anything i feel bad for them still smoking
Ok be honest this is my second time of quit period, one lasted for 7-8 years and now at the time I am writing this , I am on third month of quit marathon. Yes you heard it right I started smoking again and smoked for 2 years after 7-8 years of cold turkey.. Now when it comes to curving ( cigarettes) first few week is a real test and it can be handled well if you keep you mind busy, best practice are walk, some sports, outdoor activities and company of healthy group of people..curving would never go , as I experienced but you need to understand that it is same as a teen one wants to try his/her first cigarette and you know everyone has tried hard to delayed it ..in their youth..so even if it years after you quit ..you still want to try it ..just like a teenage kid ..good news is it’s not permanent curving you won’t have it every day ..may be once in a week , or month or year, all you need to be aware and prepare yourself to handle that moment..believe me as two time ex smoker I want you to know smoke free life is the best lifestyle...Best Of Luck ( I was stupid to break my quit smoking marathon, so it not the curving that caused me to , but my stupidity, my other advice for you to be self aware and spot it right ) Best of luck again for healthy life ..welcome to smoke free life ...it’s beautiful
Hello Joel I know this video was uploaded 4 years ago but know that you still making a difference to date... Today is my 5th day, when I saw title of video, I was like oh no should I give up now! I'm so happy I did open video just what I needed and grateful to have someone who worked one on one with smokers. Much appreciated from💐 South Africa
Congratulations on your five day quit whenlee mahomed. I am glad that you clicked on and found the actual message of the video helpful. As far as for the video being four years old, don't let the production dates throw you. I have videos that I put up 14 years ago that are as relevant today as the day when I shot them. I also have articles up that I wrote 40 years ago that pretty much hold true today. If you have any questions or concerns regarding any smoking or quitting concerns get back in touch and I will point you to applicable resources. Once again, congratulations on your quit.
Joel
@@joelspitz 🙏
Thank you Joel! Man as a quitter I would see in forums of those who are more than 6 months and even a year that still complain about withdrawal/craves. It did give me a bad image of staying quit and still have those experiences after a month or months after. I'm glad that you are saying that this shouldn't be the case and that negative feelings after a long period of time after using tobacco may be caused by something else and not the actual quit. Thank you!!!
I too believe that many forums give a false portrayal to what it truly is like to be free from nicotine. The video "Reading at other quit sites" th-cam.com/video/7W2IJIwzjTA/w-d-xo.html addresses this issue. They also often give the impression that quitting is close to impossible. The video "Quitting is more doable than most people think" th-cam.com/video/3gtXGwu3uC4/w-d-xo.html addresses this concern.
I started quit 2 months back it's going on , some problem arise in tension and fear , I am thankful for the book never take another puff 🙏
+Joel Spitzer Thanks a lot, I quit smoking watching ur videos.
i only felt , little severe only on 4th day 6th day. only for an hour. and in that hour i feel panicking alot and crying for the fear as death is near. and then i feel like how stupid i was . it was just an withdrawal symptom lol. but on the 12th day my cousin manipulated me and now i am smoking again :(
but i will quit in after 3 weeks.
i smoke half a pack everyday from 3 years.
and before 3 years i almost smoke 6 cigs a day from 6 years
total 9 years smoker
Hello Syed:
Here are a few resource pages addressing you comment above. Regarding your cousin's manipulation to get you to smoke:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/how-to-deal-with-people-offering-you-cigarettes-after-you-have-quit/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/dealing-with-people-who-try-to-undercut-your-quit/
Regarding the panicky feeling you get early in your quit:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/quitting-smoking-a-fate-worse-than-death/
Regarding quitting in three weeks:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/setting-quit-dates/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/i-will-quit-when/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/i-will-quit-when-i-finish-this-pack/
Regarding your different amounts smoked over time:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/amount-smoked/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/nicotine-tolerance/
You wrote me on another video that I am going to go respond to now. That response will tie in a little bit too to the panicky feeling you had referred to here.
I quit cold turkey, i got withdrawal for 2 weeks, exercise also helps a lot to ease withdrawal symptoms
Congratulations on your quit Benigno Burhan. Check out the pages whyquit.com/joels-videos/the-importance-of-the-first-three-days-of-your-quit/, whyquit.com/joels-videos/difference-between-physical-and-psychological-urges/ and whyquit.com/joels-videos/going-back-to-normal-after-quitting/. They discuss how different kind of symptoms can last a couple of weeks but how many of these symptoms are not so much from the withdrawals that often happen the first three days but more so the body readjusting and figuring out what normal patterns are going to be. Also related are the pages whyquit.com/joels-videos/medication-adjustments-that-may-be-necessary-after-quitting-smoking/ and whyquit.com/joels-videos/will-this-get-better/. These are important to consider in the event that some symptoms didn't improve. As far as for exercising having helped, see the pages whyquit.com/joels-videos/incorporating-exercise-after-quitting/, whyquit.com/joels-videos/so-i-cant-run-marathons/ and whyquit.com/joels-videos/quitting-may-lead-to-other-self-improvements/. Also the pages whyquit.com/joels-videos/quitting-may-lead-to-other-self-improvements/ and whyquit.com/joels-videos/using-deep-breathing-as-a-safe-and-effective-quitting-aid/ discuss one potential problem with using exercise as a crutch to quit.
Quit 3weeks ago, having huge withdrawal symptoms, help
Hello Rui Filipe:
At three weeks you should not be writing off any reactions as "huge withdrawal" symptoms. If you are off all nicotine products for three weeks and having some sort of problematic symptoms you need to be talking to your doctor to come up with the actual underlying cause of symptoms you are having. Here are a few reference pages addressing this issue:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/is-this-a-symptom-of-quitting-smoking-part-2/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/will-this-get-better/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/when-you-may-really-need-to-talk-to-your-doctor-about-quitting-smoking/
I had withdrawal after a week really bad so i chewd on a straw and took lots of vitamin C and apple cider viniger to stop the carvings also i ate like a pig and it eventually went away...i am on my 5th week and am starting to crave again but psychologically...i am just leting it pass ...it gets easyer everyday. People i smoked 27 years!!!! And if i knew it was this easy i would have stopped 10 years ago. Some one is intersted in letting us think its hard like a heroin addiction. Its not! Its much easyer then u think just hang in there for the first 3 weeks!
Hello Shanto Lion. Congratulations on five weeks. As far as for being in withdrawal after the first week, if what you were experiencing was indeed withdrawal, a stray or vitamin C or apple cider wouldn't have made any difference. In fact, if it were withdrawal you were experiencing the Vitamin C and vinegar would have intensified it for both would have acidified your urine making you lose more nicotine and thus crave nicotine more. By that point in time though, nicotine was metabolized into other chemicals or had been excreted. Here is a page addressing this issue:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/why-i-recommend-cranberry-juice-when-first-quitting-smoking/
Also, as far as for a straw, see the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/carrying-mock-cigarettes/
One other page worth going through on the topic of taking any other product is whyquit.com/joels-videos/do-whatever-it-takes-to-quit-smoking/
As far as for craving again now, see the resources on the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/craves-and-thoughts-that-occur-over-time/
Regarding people or organizations giving the impression that quitting smoking is as hard as quitting other drugs, check out the resources on the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/is-quitting-smoking-harder-than-quitting-other-drugs/
Also partially related to this is the page whyquit.com/joels-videos/are-people-doomed-to-fail-if-they-dont-get-professional-help-to-quit-smoking/
One other related page is whyquit.com/joels-videos/breaking-free-from-nicotines-grip-is-more-doable-than-most-people-think/
Being that you are off for over five weeks now, consider slowly over time going through the resources on the following two pages to secure your quit over the long-term:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/videos-related-to-the-implications-of-a-puff-once-you-have-quit/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/relapse-prevention-resources/
Hope you find all of these resources helpful.
Joel
That was supposed to say "straw" not "stray"
i’m a teenager and i was in a bad juul addiction, i juuled for around 7 months non stop. However, i haven’t hit a juul in 2 months and i developed this anxiety/depression after quiting. Will this go on? keep in mind i’m a teenager so i feel like i just jacked my brain up from all the juuling.
Hello bisexual bunny:
Check out these resource pages:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/resources-regarding-mental-health-issues/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/using-cigarettes-to-self-medicate-pre-existing-conditions/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/when-you-may-really-need-to-talk-to-your-doctor-about-quitting-smoking/
While they may to be seemed focus on cigarette smoking they are really addressing nicotine addiction issues so would be applicable to Juul or any other nicotine deliver system.
Whether your Juuling caused the problems you are experiencing or not, you want to get the ongoing problem you are having professionally assessed. At two months post use it is no longer prudent to write any ongoing symptoms off to withdrawal.
Hope you find these resources helpful.
Joel
I would agree that nicotine withdrawal is a few days of mild discomfort maximum.
Generally smokers are addicted, though, so you do get cravings, but those are not acute withdrawal. They are usually hunger related.
Check out these resources:
Craves and thoughts that occur over time: ntapblog.wordpress.com/craves-and-thoughts-that-occur-over-time/
Going back to normal after quitting: ntapblog.wordpress.com/going-back-to-normal-after-quitting/
Blood sugar issues: ntapblog.wordpress.com/blood-sugar-issues-when-quitting-smoking/
this is also intriguing
en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Insular_cortex
Here is one string that we had going at the Freedom from Nicotine board from back in 2007 when the original studies were released discussing how people who had suffered damage to the insula lost their desire to smoke: ffn.yuku.com/topic/11286/Insula-brain-region-responsible-for-craves.
Tq sir I did cold turkey. It's been 3 months. Cheers.👍
Congratulations on three months Bala Koduri. I am glad that you found the resources helpful.
Over time consider going though the resources on the pages whyquit.com/joels-videos/videos-related-to-the-implications-of-a-puff-once-you-have-quit/ and whyquit.com/joels-videos/relapse-prevention-resources/. They can help to keep your quit strong and secure over the long-term. If you ever have any specific questions or concerns please do not hesitate to get in touch.
Joel
On day 20 and still feel like a zombie. Don't have any motivation to get things done and treat everyone like crap. I used to be someone that would go to the gym 5 or 6 times a week plus a full time job. Smoked on occasion and vaped heavily. I'm worried about relapsing but even more worried about messing up my life due to lack of focus or low mood.
Hello Jack:
First, congratulations on 20 days. Now as far as for still feeling like a zombie. Be careful of writing off the symptoms you are having now to simply not having smoked. Check out these specific pages that all address potential issues that you may be experiencing:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/life-goes-on-without-smoking/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/resources-regarding-mental-health-issues/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/going-back-to-normal-after-quitting/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/medication-adjustments-that-may-be-necessary-after-quitting-smoking/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/electronic-cigarette-users-having-a-harder-time-when-quitting-smoking/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/when-you-may-really-need-to-talk-to-your-doctor-about-quitting-smoking/
I quite last 87 hrs
Craving doesnt kill you, sigarettes do
Hello Username:
The page whyquit.com/joels-videos/dying-for-a-cigarette/ discusses this very point.
Jim Dimitrov,exactly what symptoms did you go through and for how long? I am in month 9 and I am still feeling weakness,tingling in my hands and feet,tighness in my chest mostly at night and all these symptoms last for about 3 days then ease off for a day or 2 then back on again.The weakness is mostly in my legs and feet.I walk for about 15 feet and have to sit down for a few minutes.My legs get very sore and stiff and my leg and feet skin hurts when i put any pressure on from bathing or shower.I was not feeling any of these symptoms before I quit smoking.I also have COPD,but I was actually able to walk for 5-10 minutes or more before I quit smoking.There are days I start to feel a little better and more energy,then it all starts again for a few days.Did you go through any of this?
Darrell, whether or not Jim or anyone else experienced these symptoms is not important. What is important is that you are experiencing ongoing symptoms and thinking that it is somehow a normal effect of your having quit smoking 9 months ago. Check out these resources: whyquit.com/wordpress/is-anyone-else-experiencing-the-symptom-of/
I stopped a week ago. 2 days ago I stopped using patches. Felt so sick yesterday. Nausea anxiety irritability. Had to use a patch today. Really wish I could stop feeling sick
Carolyn, my personal belief is that by using the patch you are really prolonging the withdrawal process. Here is a link to numerous resources I have explaining my views on this topic.
joelspitzer.org/limitations-of-the-use-of-nicotine-replacement-products/
Joel Spitzer I completely agree with you. I was so desperate this morning and I just did not want to smoke. Wish I would have just muddled through. Maybe soon I can try it again without the patch. My husband used the same patch for like 5 days and then took it off. He said for him it was like a psychological thing I.e. He had the patch so in his head it was like there. He doesn't use anything now
Carolyn, check out the page ntapblog.wordpress.com/can-you-spare-about-an-hour-and-a-half-to-help-to-save-your-life/
It will provide you resources to get you started into an actual quit.
Or, you could do the day by day videos discussed here th-cam.com/video/-Tp_rt5RNmc/w-d-xo.html
Joel Spitzer thank you Mr. Spritzer. I am going to watch. I've never been more serious about staying stopped than I am now. First people in my family have died from illnesses related to smoking. It's bad. Another thing is I want a baby and I know it wouldn't be fair to my child to be smoking when I conceive. Thank you for your videos
You are welcome Carolyn. Some of the resources will help to build on what you have already noted, the importance of quitting smoking as you have begun to realize from the effects it has already had on some of your family. Quitting smoking is really an effort to preserve your health and saving your life. As far as for quitting in hopes of one day having a baby--it is very helpful to understand the risks posed by smoking when pregnant. Here is a link to a string from the Freedom from Nicotine support site addressed to the issue: ffn.yuku.com/topic/26649
Also semi-related though is the video The importance of quitting for yourself th-cam.com/video/CwYQ6fq9ZCI/w-d-xo.html. It is definitely to the benefit of your future family and others who care about you that you quit smoking--but you are going to be the real primary beneficiary of your quit. The video highlights the importance of understanding that concept. By the way, you can just call me Joel.
It's been 7 weeks and no end in sight, I am crippled and disabled and have never felt so sick in my life. I feel like I have the flu, in poor health, had to quit. When will the anxiety, depression, chronic fatigue, headache and nausea stop?
Hello Janice:
Sorry for the delay in getting back to you here. I had a technical problem with TH-cam where I did not see your comment here until last night. Here is a page I set up explaining the issue I was having: whyquit.com/joels-videos/i-am-seeing-comments-again/
The information on this videos reference page whyquit.com/joels-videos/does-nicotine-withdrawal-really-last-for-months-or-years/ addresses some of the issues you are raising here. Hope you saw that page when first looking at the video three weeks ago.
Also, check out these two pages for they directly apply to your question here:
whyquit.com/joels-videos/when-you-may-really-need-to-talk-to-your-doctor-about-quitting-smoking/
whyquit.com/joels-videos/resources-regarding-mental-health-issues/
Hope you find this information helpful.
Joel