I quit vaping AGAIN

Well, I quit vaping again. Ironically, I quit by smoking. Since I can only smoke outside and all. Anyway, I threw my vape away when I used up my last pod. Then I bought a pack of Marlboro 100s, smoked those over the next week, and had my last one last night. We’ll see how long this lasts.

But now I feel this sort of depression. It used to be that when chilling on my couch and watching TV, I’d just puff away. It helped me relax. But now…TV isn’t as entertaining. It’s not the same. I don’t have that physical high and relaxation. Nothing in my lap to pick up and take a drag. It’s weird. The boredom is setting in like crazy. And the boredom turns to depression.

I think I’m motivated enough to quit permanently this time, as I’ve seen the firsthand effects of how this has been damaging my voice. I’m a singer, so that’s super important. But I don’t know how to deal with this boredom and depression. I live alone, so it’s not like I can just do something fun with my wife or kids. Any advice is welcome.

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Graylight · 51-55, F

When guys come in to rehab with multiple issues, we set up a treatment plan for every one of them because tackling one issue means cleaning out your whole closet, you know? We do this with everything but nicotine. To that, we say give it time; tackle that when there's less work on your plate.

We say this because we recognize what a truly deep-seated vice this is. That's you've even made the decision to quit again shows willingness to be free of it. The addiction is both physical (the nicotine) and behavioral, as vaping represents calm, a break, relaxation, etc. You need to find things to replace that reassurance you're taking way. What a great time to start something else. A new hobby, new music, even learning how to perfect the art of the fidget spinner. Whatever it takes.

Also bear in mind that many smokers report feeling instant calm when lighting up. It's thought at least part of this is because for many, it's the first deep breathing they've done all day. You might want to try some breathing techniques like box breathing (4 seconds in, 4 seconds pause, 4 second out, 4 seconds pause) to center yourself.

If you're the type, check out therapistaid.com. There's information on triggers and management, anxiety, relaxation skills, etc. You can do this. Every single time you choose not to vape, you're stronger for the next time. Good luck.

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Carla · 61-69, F

@Graylight well, thank you. 🙂

RopinTexan · 36-40, M

@Graylight Thanks for this advice. I’ve been trying your idea of deep breathing today—basically pretending like I’m vaping but without actually vaping—and it’s actually really helping. Just holding my breath for a few seconds still gives me a bit of that “buzz.”

Graylight · 51-55, F

@RopinTexan You can do it. If you’ve got the moxie to kick around this place, you’ve got what it takes to quit. And hey, if you do end up vaping, it’s not a failure; just a chance to assess and strengthen weak areas.

MyNameIsHurl · 41-45, F

Try some candy to keep your mouth occupied. You can do this

RopinTexan · 36-40, M

@MyNameIsHurl I got some of those Nicorette nicotine lozenges. That’s helping a bit.

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