Relapsing often occurs following a traumatizing event, a stressful period or after drinking alcohol at a party: you forget all about the drawbacks of being a smoker simply because you feel tipsy.
If it happens, don’t feel guilty and above all don’t lose hope: each new attempt is another step towards success.
Relapsing is usually related to:
- Lost motivation or recollection of how pleasant smoking used to be (16%)
Lost motivation is a particularly frequent cause in subjects who quit without it being their true personal decision, but rather, at least partly, a decision imposed by others.
- Painful event (16%)
Unemployment, separation, death, disease of a family member etc: this type of event always occurs suddenly and the urge to smoke can arise almost instantly, as the ex-smoker remembers the quick relief cigarettes had provided in such situations.
- Friendly environment (16%)
In opposition to negative emotions, positive sensations can also trigger relapse.
The most reported and common cause of relapsing is a pleasant situation, a happy event, a party with friends or family, a friendly atmosphere that implies alcohol, coffee and other smokers.
- Depressive conditions (16%)
These must be distinguished from a mere depressive mood, which is a common withdrawal symptom, more particularly when physical dependency is high. The most frequent situation is that of an existing, but latent and unknown, psychological disorder.
- Weight gain (15%)
When excessive, particularly when it isn’t well accepted from a psychological point of view, weight gain can be a cause for relapse, especially in women. Starting again is then a deliberate choice, even in the absence of any true urge to smoke.
- Stress (13%)
Prolonged “stressful” situations, related to professional or family difficulties or worries can lead to relapse.
- Persistence or resumption of physical dependency (8%)
Persistent physical dependency is more specifically reported during the first few months, mainly when dosage of the replacement therapy is insufficient, and especially if it was discontinued at a too early stage. Physical dependency can reappear months, or even years later, when in contact with nicotine, no matter how short and temporary: a single cigarette or a few hours spent in a smoky atmosphere can be sufficient to trigger the physical need for smoking.
Always remember that relapse is frequent and normal. By persisting, you will find your own personal solutions to stop for good.
Source: Lagrue G., Arrêter de fumer ?, Paris, Editions Odile Jacob, 2000.