They mostly fall short, however, when it comes to the maintenance aspect of staying smoke-free. The physical addiction to nicotine can be overcome in one to two weeks. It is during this period, however, that our cravings seem to get worse rather than easier. At this time we begin to experience mental withdrawal from our addiction, and that is where the real fight begins. Giving up smoking is a major life change.
Cigarettes accompany almost every activity of the smoker's day.
Over time the addict incorporates smoking to be an integral part of driving, walking, meals, yard work, telephone conversations, love making and more. By taking away the cigarette, we experience a serious sense of loss in almost everything we do. The feelings and emotions that surface are akin to those experienced with the loss of a dear friend or a close relative. Anger, frustration, despair and depression are very common amongst ex-smokers. If not dealt with carefully and effectively, these feelings can easily cause the addict to pick up.