Smoking helps me relax
when I'm tense or upset.

Quiz: Do you smoke for this reason?
If you answer "often" or "sometimes" to the following questions,
this is one reason you smoke.

• I light up a cigarette when something makes me angry.
  
  
• Smoking relaxes me in a stressful situation.
  
  
• When I'm depressed I reach for a cigarette to feel better.

Lots of smokers use cigarettes to help them through bad times. If you've used cigarettes as a crutch, finding another way to cope with stress can help you stay quit. Otherwise, you may want to smoke again whenever problems arise.

The tips below include ideas that have helped former smokers handle tense times without tobacco.

Tips to Help You Quit

• Use relaxation techniques to calm down when you are angry or upset. Deep breathing exercises, muscle relaxation, and imagining yourself in a peaceful setting can make you feel less stressed.
  
  
• Exercise regularly. Studies show that exercise relieves tension and improves your mood.
  
  
• Remember that smoking never solves the problem; figure out what will, and act.
  
  
• Avoid or get out of stressful situations that might tempt you to smoke.
  
  
• Get enough rest. Take time each day to relax, no matter how busy you are.
  
  
• Enjoy relaxation. Take a long hot bath. Have a massage. Lie in a garden hammock. Listen to soothing music.

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