Dealing with cravings

Many people experience cravings when they cut down or quit smoking. The 4 Ds offer helpful ways to cope:

Delay

Most cravings will pass in a few minutes. Tell yourself this and control the impulse to smoke.

Distract

Take your mind off smoking by thinking of something else to do. Take action against urges!

Deep breathing

Breathe in slowly and deeply and then breathe out. This mimics the actual motion of smoking, will help you to feel calmer and more in control.

Drink water

Take a sip of water and hold it in your mouth for a while before swallowing. This can also help with the hand to mouth action of smoking.

For more information about dealing with cravings, contact a Quit Coach at the Canadian Cancer Society Smokers’ Helpline at 1 877 513-5333, toll free, and visit www.SmokersHelpline.ca