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How to cope on quit day

In two days you will stop smoking. Start planning now for your first day without cigarettes. Here are some ideas to help you cope.

* Stay home from work or school. Go away for a day or two if you can.

* Take it easy or keep very busy, whichever works best for you.

* Drink lots of water - six to eight glasses if you can.

* Do not drink any type of alcohol (wine, beer, liqueurs and spirits).

* Take a long, hot bath to reduce your stress.

* Write in your journal about how you are feeling emotionally and physically.

* Change your routine. Do things out of the ordinary that don't remind you of smoking.

* Remind your family, friends, and co-workers that this is your quit day. Ask them to help and support you.

* Get some exercise. If you're just starting to exercise for the first time in a long time, just go for a walk at your own pace. Don't overdo it.

* Read a good book that you just don't want to put down.

* Munch on some low-fat, healthy snacks such as carrot sticks, an apple or other fresh fruits and vegetables. (Make sure you have some on hand for quit day.)

* Buy yourself a small gift or do something to celebrate.

Be sure to print out this message and keep it handy for quit day. You can also write up your own plan of things to do to avoid cigarettes.

Your first day without cigarettes could seem long. Try to make it as pleasant and stress-free as possible.

© Health Canada