Step 8: Preparing to tackle Nicotine withdrawal symptoms:
The symptoms of withdrawal from nicotine can be very tough to handle. For example, they can include a whole array of disconcerting conditions such as dizziness, depression, feelings of irritability, frustration and anger, sleep disturbances, decrease in ability to concentrate, agitation, headaches, fatigue and increased appetite. The first few days will be the toughest to negotiate and afterwards it gets gradually easy. There is no substitute to circumventing the suffering and pain during the first few days. Hence, the individual should be mentally prepared to get through the difficult initial period. The addicted individual can also consider taking Varenicline, which is a prescription medication that alleviates nicotine withdrawal symptoms. It also has the benefit of lessening the pleasure derived from smoking, making it a valuable ally in the tapering-off stage of quitting smoking.
Step 9: Make use of Telephone Counseling Programs:
In many countries twenty four hour help-lines are run to provide support for smokers planning to quit. Since the personal psychotherapist cannot be availed of at all times, this phone facility can be very useful during times of distress. For example, when a patient is suffering under the cloud of withdrawal symptoms, there will be a strong tendency to resort back to smoking as a way of reducing the symptoms. At this juncture, picking up the telephone and speaking to a volunteer in one of these help-lines can provide relief. For one thing, talking to another person who listens with empathy and understanding has its own soothing effects. In addition to this, the knowledge that the patient is not alone in this battle against smoking can provide the necessary solace and motivation.