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COPD and Can’t Commit to Quitting Smoking
I was diagnosed with COPD a year ago and have made efforts to stop smoking but I keep buying cigarettes. I have quit for a couple of days at a time and keep going back. I don’t want to let go of smoking because I can’t handle the stresses in my life. I know continuing to smoke will make my life worse but I feel like I just don’t care in the one hand and to no avail keep telling myself I’m going to be even more miserable if I don’t stop. Has anyone else gone through this?
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Hello @uriasy and @sheila247. Welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect.
@uriasy – Quitting after more than 50 years is no small feat. Smoking becomes deeply woven into everyday life, so retraining your brain and building new habits takes time. Be kind and patient with yourself throughout the process — but above all, don’t give up.
@sheila247 – The experience you described sounds truly frightening. I'm so glad to hear you're improving each day despite the ongoing challenges of peripheral neuropathy. Congratulations on quitting after 55 years — that’s an incredible achievement.
We all know that using tobacco products and vaping can have serious, even deadly, health consequences. At the same time, addiction is very real, and the way it affects the brain is powerful and complex. But no matter how hard it may seem, don’t stop fighting. There is so much to gain from quitting.
Let’s continue to support and encourage each other, especially on tough days. We’re all in this together.
@uriasy, What’s one new habit or routine you’ve found helpful in replacing the urge to smoke?
@sheila247, What has been the most helpful source of motivation or support for you on your quit journey?