NEW: Express access to COVID-19 vaccine record is now available.

The MyHealth.Alberta.ca Network showcases trusted, easy-to-use health and wellness resources from Alberta Health Services and Alberta-based partner organizations. The network is led by MyHealth.Alberta.ca, Alberta’s source for consumer health information. Our partners are committed to helping Albertans better manage their health and wellbeing. Health experts across Alberta make sure that the information on these sites is accurate and up-to-date. Our partners include

MyHealth.Alberta.ca Network
Health Information and Tools >  Quitting Tobacco: Managing a Slip-Up

Main Content

Quitting Tobacco: Managing a Slip-Up

Quitting Tobacco: Managing a Slip-Up (00:01:30)
Video Transcript

It takes hard work, time, and  commitment to quit smoking.

And whether your goal is to stop smoking  or vaping or using other tobacco products, it's a big achievement to reach that goal.

Having a slip-up can make you feel  guilty and disappointed in yourself.

But the truth is, slip-ups happen, and  they happen to almost everyone who quits.

Here's how to manage a slip-up  so you can finally quit for good.

Keep track of the things that trigger you.

When you see patterns, you can learn to  manage your triggers or avoid them altogether.

Try using nicotine replacement  products to control your cravings.

Over-the-counter products include  the patch, lozenges, or nicotine gum.

It may also help to talk with a  counselor or other health professional.

They can help you with a quit plan  and tell you about other resources.

Combining counseling, medicines, and nicotine replacement products can  also increase your chances of quitting.

Ask people not to use tobacco products around you.

And try to spend more time with  people who want you to succeed.

Join a support group, find an online  quit program, or call a quitline.

Or try text messages or apps  that help with quitting.

A lapse can lead to a relapse,  but it doesn't have to.

Use what you learned from  your slip-up to fine-tune your quit plan and commit again to your goal.

Remember why you quit—and keep on quitting.

Current as of: November 15, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions. Image is used for illustrative purposes only and any person depicted is a model.

Current as of: November 15, 2023

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.