Relapse

Relapse is common and is defined as a return to regular smoking. It’s normal to feel upset when you relapse, but think of the positives - every day you are smoke free your body is becoming healthier.

A common response to a smoking relapse is to feel that you have failed, but it’s important not to be too hard on yourself. Quitting smoking is like learning a new skill - it takes practice and patience. It's important to learn from the experience and adapt your quit smoking plan for next time.

You may like to ask yourself the following questions after a relapse or when you are reviewing your quit smoking plan.

• What were the circumstances that led to your smoking relapse and are they likely to happen again?
• What strategy could help you in this kind of situation next time? If you are unsure what may help, try talking to a friend, your GPor Quitline. And if you haven't already, download the (free!) My QuitBuddy app.
• Are you losing motivation and confidence? Is that affecting your quit smoking plan? It may be useful to refresh in your mind the reasons you want to quit. Once you decide to have another go at quitting smoking, your motivation can rapidly increase.
• If you were using Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) or a prescribed quit smoking medication, did you use them correctly? All medications need to be used as directed to gain the most benefit.

Never give up giving up. When you feel ready, update your quit smoking plan with what you have learnt from your previous attempt and consider ways you could get help to quit.