Ten Steps to Quit Vaping Permanently

1. Identify your Trigger

Is it anxiety, stress, social pressure or anything else that is triggering your desire to vape. You could have a combination of several triggers. Talking to a counselor is the best way to proceed. Counselors can help you to identify the root cause and the triggers. This is the first step in understanding why you vape. Once you have this information, you can then create a plan for quitting vaping.

2. Nicotine Replacement Therapy

It is important to address nicotine withdrawal when quitting vaping. Dr. Folan says that nicotine replacement therapy and other FDA-approved cessation medications can be very effective in quitting smoking or vaping. Dr. Folan adds that «support from your healthcare provider, your local cessation program, and your state Quitline are all important.» The FDA has not approved nicotine replacement products for children under 18. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that pediatricians look at off-label options for nicotine replacement for patients who are moderately or severely addicted. A free text messaging program is available for teens that was specifically designed to help them quit smoking. It’s called «This is Quitting».

3. Install a ‘Quit Smoking App

You can do almost anything with an app these day. Help is also available for those who want to quit vaping. Dr. Folan states that there are many excellent apps to help quit smoking. These apps can be used to distract from your cravings and give you motivation and support. We recommend the NYC DOH and Mental Hygiene app, ‘NYC Help Me Quit’.

4. Commit To Quit

Only you can do it. It is your commitment that will determine if you are able to stop an unhealthy habit. It is important to think about your health and the health of those around you. You will not be able quit vaping if it is used as a way to cope with stress or other triggers. Your health will suffer. You must decide to give up vaping and change your life.

5. Make your plan known

Tell your friends and family about your plans. It will help others not to distract from your focus by putting it out there. You will be better equipped to ask for help if you need it. This will prevent you from falling back into old habits.

6. Strategy To Fight Cravings

It is normal to make slip-ups when trying to quit an unhealthy habit. Slip-ups are not a good thing. You need to devise a plan to curb your cravings and learn how to manage withdrawal symptoms. These withdrawal symptoms could be yours:

• Headache
• Anxiety
• Sweating
• Insomnia
• Tired feeling
• Restlessness
• Concentration problems
• Problems with thinking clearly
• Hunger

Take the time to prepare yourself by doing these:

1. Ask your counselor for help.
2. Make sure you have healthy snacks
3. Make sure you have fresh juice and crushed ice
4. If prescribed by your doctor, you can use nicotine gums.
5. Keep your mind clear by exercising.
6. Talk to a friend or relative you trust.

7. Join a Support Group

For those who need help or want to be on the same page with others, support groups can be extremely helpful. You will find support groups that are supportive and non-judgmental. They will listen to your story and help you to overcome unhealthy habits.

8. Celebrate small successes

When it comes to quitting a harmful habit, celebrating small victories is key. For each day and week, set small goals. Set a reward system for reaching your goal. Reward yourself for achieving your weekly or daily goal. Your brain will recognize the positive effects that celebrating success and not giving in to your urges can have on your brain.

9. De-stress and exercise

Exercise releases endorphins which are the good hormones that can improve your mood and quality of sleep. Exercise not only improves your physical health, but it also helps to create a healthier mental environment. You can run, walk, lift weights or dance at the gym. To help you relax and improve your focus, yoga and meditation are great options.

10. Avoid Negativity

It is easy to overlook this, but it is crucial for a healthy mind. You need to reevaluate your priorities and avoid stress from people, such as your family or your friends at school. You can set clear boundaries to ensure your mental health does not suffer. To achieve a better mental state, have an open conversation. Friends who allow you to vape should be disassociated. Talk to your school counselor if your family is not respectful of your boundaries. If you find yourself in a toxic work environment, it is best to immediately start looking for a new job.

Don’t limit yourself by the boundaries of others or your own expectations.

The Final Takeaway

You deserve kudos for quitting vaping. It is not a healthier alternative to smoking. Lung damage, heart disease, addiction, and other health problems can be caused by this. Get immediate help from a counselor and/or an institute that is reputable. To quit vaping, follow the instructions of your doctor. Keep your commitment to your health and yourself. It is possible to learn from whatever you are going through. Lao Tzu, a wise man, once said that «Great acts are made up small deeds.» You will never look back.