Coping with cravings

Craving a smoke or vape can strike suddenly. But it will only usually last a few minutes. There are things you can do to help manage a craving.

Distract yourself with something interesting. Watch something on your phone or do a quiz or crossword. Play some music and relax or try having a healthy snack. Deep breathing can be useful. Going for a walk or other exercise can also help you cope with cravings.

Keeping your hands busy during a craving can be helpful. Some people beat cravings by drinking water or brushing their teeth.

Reach out to Quitline for help. Quitline counsellors have plenty of great ideas to support you through your quitting. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about help quitting. Nicotine replacement therapy can help reduce cravings.

Cravings won’t last forever. Staying quit will get easier as your cravings reduce with time. Your cravings will happen less often, and they will be less intense.

Don’t give up, you can beat these cravings!