Section 3: Managing Cravings and Preventing Relapse
Recovery plan after a lapse
If you have a lapse, stop before it continues, analyze the trigger, update your plan, and return to being smoke-free.
The first steps taken after a lapse matter for preventing the event from turning into regular use again.
Recovery steps
- Don't continue: don't move on to a second cigarette by telling yourself "it's already ruined anyway."
- Write it down: where were you, who were you with, and what emotion were you in?
- Identify the trigger: was it stress, alcohol, social pressure, lack of a plan, or a strong habit?
- Update your plan: decide on the new behavior you'll use if the same scenario repeats.
- Consider support: if the craving or withdrawal is too strong to manage on your own, a health professional or smoking cessation support can be considered.
- Go back: return to being smoke-free as soon as possible.
Key takeaways
The most important step after a lapse is to stop it rather than let it continue, and to strengthen your plan.
This content is for general information and is not a substitute for medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional about your own health.