Losing the smokes without losing your mind

Many people want to ditch the darts but the fear of wild mood swings prevents them from going for it. While quitting can bring on a bit of a mood rollercoaster, there are many things you can do to cope. But even if you had to battle some blues, what would you prefer: a few grumpy months or a lifetime of disease?

Knowledge is power

Understanding why moods change may make it easier for smokers to cope with mood changes. Firstly, scientists have shown that people who had psychological conditions such as anxiety and depression before they started smoking are more likely to experience greater nicotine dependence and worse moods when they quit.

There is also evidence that the brain adapts to nicotine withdrawal and the changes can affect concentration, motivation, attention and the ability to resist smoking.

However, all of this is normal and will pass. If you can get through the first few months of withdrawal then you will be on the path to a new life and a new set of lungs. Sometimes just knowing that a bad mood will end is enough to see you through it.

Coping, not moping

Well, maybe a little moping will be involved, but there are also many ways you can cope with mood changes. Remember, thousands of people have successfully quit and they have been through the maddening mood swings too.

‘Self-efficacy’ is the belief that you can quit successfully. This is a key strategy. Self-efficacy often needs to be built up and reinforced with the help of a doctor or professional counsellor, so talk to your GP about strategies that can improve your self-efficacy before you quit.

David Beckham didn’t become a soccer star overnight. It took time and practice, so think of yourself as a quitting superstar. Though you might not get the money and fame, you will get your health back. And that is priceless.

A little help from my friends

In this fight, think of health professionals as your best friends. If you have difficulty, your doctor is there to help and can discuss different medications to support your decision.

Nicotine replacement therapy can reduce cravings for nicotine while other medications such as nortriptyline (e.g. Allegron) or bupropion (e.g. Zyban) can alleviate bad moods in people who do not have depression.

If you do suffer from depression, you may be prescribed antidepressants to help cope with quitting.

Wind of change

Another way to work on your mojo is by working on your overall lifestyle. You’ll be changing a few things anyway in order to live life without those nasty cigarettes, so why not go all the way?

Things like sleep patterns have a huge impact on your mood. If you’re avoiding the pub anyway to lay off the smokes, then take the opportunity to rest your weary head.

Exercise is a key component to levelling out the grumps, too. It is a natural high and releases all sorts of ‘feel good’ chemicals without the need for a cancer stick. It can also promote great self-esteem and can help control weight gain.

With all the sleep you’ll be getting, you may as well get up early for a jog!

Choose life

So, yes, you may experience some moody times, but knowing they are coming also means you can be prepared. Use all the help at your disposal, if necessary, and seek support from friends, family and your doctor. Always remember that a bad mood will pass – but cancer may not.