How to Overcome the Four Types of Smoking Triggers

On the path to quitting smoking, cigarette cravings can be hard to overcome, but understanding your triggers and what to expect during your quit can make it a bit easier. Most cravings fall under 4 different types of triggers and you can get through each with the help of some tips and the all-new Nicorette Coated Ice Mint Lozenge.

1. Physical Triggers

   There are 2 types of physical triggers: those related to your senses and those related to the physical habits you formed around smoking. The triggers related to your senses occur when you smell cigarette smoke, see a pack of cigarettes, or handle a lighter. The triggers related to your habits can occur when you miss having something in your mouth or the hand-to-mouth movement of smoking. Keep track of your physical triggers and consider these tips to keep your resolve strong.

   

2. Emotional Triggers

   As a smoker, you may have turned to cigarettes to ease emotions like stress, anxiety, and boredom. So while quitting, those feelings often become emotional triggers that lead to cravings. They can sometimes build up, like over a long, stressful week—or can hit you out of nowhere, like a sudden bad mood. Regardless of how emotional triggers come on, there are things you can do to keep them in check.

   

3. Behavioral Triggers

   Smoking is often associated with other behaviors. Maybe you always had a cigarette while driving, watching TV after work, or with your morning coffee. During your quit, these activities can often feel incomplete without a smoke, making them behavioral triggers that lead to cravings. Because these triggers are based on your own patterns, they are inherently predictable. Being able to anticipate them means you can better prepare for when they come on.

   

4. Social Triggers

   It can be very difficult to abstain from cigarettes around others who smoke. However, you can often anticipate where these smokers may be. The bar scene, for instance, isn’t likely to be so quitter friendly. Knowing what to expect before leaving the house can make combatting social-related cravings a bit easier.

   

Regardless of what triggers your cravings, nicotine replacement products—like the all-new Nicorette Coated Ice Mint—can help. As the first FDA-approved coated lozenge, it combines long-lasting craving relief with amazing taste and a smooth texture. Try a free taste sample* today.

*Samples reflect the taste of Nicorette Coated Lozenge but are nicotine free and do not provide craving relief.