Thursday, April 29, 2010

Stress and Smoking cessation

So if you have a lot or even a little stress in your life when you are about to embark on the battle of this addiction to cigarettes, you might want to address other stressors in your life first or concurrently.

If you have stress (and most people do), it would be beneficial to learn how to manage your stress better.  Improving coping skills and stress management will always be advantageous in life, but especially during times when you are faced with additional challenges.

There are many reputable sites that will provide great information such as, National Institute of Health (NIH) http://www.nih.gov, Department of Health & Mental Hygiene  (DHMH) www.dhmh.state.md.us    

Consider the underlying stress, like children, finances, family issues, employment/career, health, or other responsibilities.  Be sure to put these issues in proper perspective.  If you need a plan for things that must be changed, put a plan in order.  If you must accept things as they are then take time to do so and figure out how to learn and move on.  If you feel overwhelmed or don't know where to start....if you need professional help... it is out there ...go get it!  It's a good thing!

The rewards of developing optimal skills for psychological wellness are immeasurable and WILL be integral in your efforts to quit smoking!  

No comments:

Post a Comment