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How to stop smoking
Feel conflicted about smoking. I don’t think I’m actually enjoying the smoking itself anymore, or at least not getting much satisfaction from it, but I still feel a strong urge to continue the activity. It feels more like I’m attached to the act, routine, or compulsion of smoking rather than the pleasure from it.
Currently i smoke like 10 mint cig per day. I have been smoking for full 2 years now. I want to stop now as it is affecting my lungs, skin, lip etc.
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You’ve already figured out the hardest part — you’re not enjoying it anymore, it’s just the routine and urge pulling you back. That’s exactly how nicotine dependence works.
10 cigarettes a day for 2 years means quitting cold turkey will be tough. Start by identifying your trigger moments — after food, stress, boredom — and tackle those first.
If the urges feel unmanageable, there are medications with very good success rates for quitting. Book a consultation and we can plan this properly.
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Hello, what you are describing is commonly seen in nicotine dependence. Over time, smoking may stop giving the same pleasure or satisfaction, but the brain and body continue craving the habit, routine and temporary relief associated with it. This does not mean you lack willpower — nicotine can create both physical and psychological dependence.
Next Steps
The positive thing is that you have already developed insight and motivation to quit, especially after noticing effects on your health, skin and breathing. That is an important first step
Health Tips
Identify your smoking triggers (stress, boredom, after meals, tea/coffee, loneliness, etc.)
• Gradually reduce access and delay each cigarette by 15–30 minutes initially
• Replace the routine with healthier alternatives like chewing gum, water, walking, deep breathing or keeping hands occupied
• Avoid guilt if cravings occur — urges usually peak for a few minutes and then reduce
• Maintain regular sleep, hydration and physical activity, as they help reduce cravings and anxiety
• Inform close friends/family if you are trying to quit so they can support you
Since you are smoking daily and finding it difficult to stop despite wanting to quit, consulting a psychiatrist/de-addiction specialist can help. Counselling and nicotine replacement options can make quitting easier and more successful.
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