Staying Tobacco-Free
Worried about relapsing or going back to using tobacco?
Being able to quit using tobacco is an amazing feat. Staying quit for good is a challenge. But don’t worry – with these tips, staying quit can be easier.
Learn your triggers. These are the things that make you crave tobacco. Nicotine withdrawal is one of the main reasons for craving tobacco. Other triggers can be stress, boredom and weight gain.
Find healthier habits to replace tobacco use. Once you know what your triggers are, you can start choosing healthier habits when you feel the urge to use tobacco. As soon as you get any of these feelings, try taking a walk, doing breathing exercises or talking to a friend. Sometimes, your trigger may be linked to weight loss. Many people gain between 5 and 10 pounds after they quit. If this sounds like you, don’t panic. This is normal when you quit using tobacco, since nicotine speeds up your metabolism. Instead of turning back to tobacco, try these tips instead:
- Eat regular meals.
- Eat healthier foods.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Do more physical activity.
- Get enough sleep.
I relapsed. What do I do now?
Slip ups are normal. If this happens, call the Indiana Quitline at 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669) as soon as possible. They will give you the tools to help quit again and stay tobacco-free. They will make sure you’re dealing with your triggers in a healthy way.
Learn about how CareSource rewards you for quitting tobacco.
Member Services: 1-844-607-2829 (TTY: 1-844-743-3333 or 711), Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time.