Understanding & Managing the Relapse Process

Quitting tobacco is a process. For many, it takes several attempts to quit smoking for good. If you slip or relapse, don’t get discouraged. We’re here with you to get you back to a smokefree life!

What’s the difference between smoking slips and relapses?

A slip is when, no matter how hard you try not to, you have one or two cigarettes.

A relapse is when you fall back to the point of being a regular smoker.

Most slips or relapses occur within the first three months after quitting, but they can happen any time. So be on guard.

Tips to Deal with a Relapse:

Approach the relapse as an opportunity to learn and step towards quitting for good.
Once you understand what might have led to the relapse, remember to stay positive.
Figure out how to avoid a relapse in the future.

Ask Yourself These Questions To Get a Better Sense on How to Avoid Future Relapses




	1		Was there an unexpected or stressful event that you weren’t prepared to deal with?

	2		Did you have a strategy in place that didn’t work?

	3		Are cravings stronger at certain times of the day or in certain environments?

	4		What hurdles, temptations or influences are preventing you from quitting for good?

	5		Did you use the free Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) or other services of Tobacco Free Florida?

How can you be more successful in quitting?

Create a Quit Plan

Building a quit plan and using proven-effective resources, like Tobacco Free Florida, can significantly increase your chances of quitting smoking once and for all.

Click here to identify your triggers and build a stronger Quit Plan.

Set a Quit Date

Tobacco Free Florida encourages smokers who are ready to quit to set a quit date in the near future. This will help keep you prepared, focused, and motivated.

Click here to choose your quit date.

Use Nicotine Replacement Therapy

Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) helps reduce withdrawal symptoms and cigarette cravings, doubling your chances of quitting for good. Using them together with counseling is more effective than using either one alone.

Click here to sign up for the FREE starter kit with patches, gum or lozenges.

Talk to a Doctor

Talk to a healthcare professional, like your doctor, dentist or pharmacist. Smokers who talk to a healthcare provider about quitting or use evidence-based resources, like Tobacco Free Florida, are more successful than those who do it alone.

Click here to learn how to seek their help.