Using the nicotine patch or gum may help ease withdrawal symptoms. You have to take it minute by minute. Pick a quit date, then recognize difficult situations. For instance, if drinking with friends makes you want to smoke, then don't go. Try to fill your time with interesting activities.
Many people worry about gaining weight.
Only three to five extra pounds might be added based on the loss of the stimulant effect in nicotine. Miki Arume, smoking cessation coordinator with Kaiser Permanente in Hawaii, says studies show that most people quit smoking on their own. Arume advises spreading the word that you're quitting. A lot of people don't want to do this. But telling people creates a safety net of support.