quitting smoking

[Meg26]

Ok, so when I found out I was pregnant I immediately quit smoking with no issues at all as I knew I had to. When my little guy turned 4 months he hit his sleep regression hard! (This lasted well into his 10th month)well after a few weeks of severe stress, sleep deprivation and anxiety I defaulted back to my bad habit of smoking. I know it was a rediculously stupid move. Since my little guys sleeping is in check i have tried quitting a couple of times and it seems much harder than when I was pregnant!. My son has been having chronic ear infections for the passed 6 months and today I have been doing research and reading alot and found information that basically says my smoking (even though never inside and never around my son) is probably whats causing them...
Ive made the choice to quit starting tomorrow, I dont even need to think about this decision i would havedone it sooner had i known it was my fault. Just wondering if anyone out there can give me some tips to succeed or encouraging words. I just feel like a terrible mom right now knowing that I caused his infections

 

[amyjones3]

Hi Meg26! It's a great thing that you have decided to quit smoking. Aside from the obvious health benefit that you'll have from quitting, you are also creating a healthy environment for your son. If you feel like smoking again try to chew gum to suppress the cravings. Hope that helps!

 

[gingmg]

Good for you!! I know its so hard, I've done it a million times and always go back. Hopefully this time is for good. Take multiple long slow deep breaths every hour. Go for walks. Chew gum. Make a list of why you want to quit and tape it to the mirror or fridge. Make a savings account and put in the money you would have spent on cigarettes, then buy yourself something with it. Again, breathe and breathe some more. Hold a straw and even suck in the clean air if you want. Sing a song. See how long you can hold a note. Drink a glass of water. And again, take a long deep breath. Good luck!! It is so hard, but you will never be sorry.

 

[RoseArcana]

Good for you making the change. I gave up as soon as I found out I was pregnant too. I managed until my daughter stopped breastfeeding and I started uni last March. I didn't give in to normal cigarettes though. I use an e-cigarette but I'm hoping to cut this down and give it up soon. It is tough so good luck x

 

[_jellybean_]

Allen Carr's book entitled "The Easy Way to Quit" is really a great read!