A relapse is a return to regular smoking. It’s natural to feel disappointed when a ‘slip-up’ happens but don’t forget every day you were smoke-free made your body healthier and helped to break habits and weaken your addiction.

Quitting is a process, and the process is different for everyone. It can take thought, time and effort to learn what to do and what triggers to avoid. Both your mind and body need time to adjust to no longer smoking.

When to try quitting again?

The best time to give quitting a go again is when you feel like you’re ready. But don’t wait until the perfect time – it may never come. If you feel you want to jump back in right away, that’s fine too. Consider some of the information below:

• Mark a time in your calendar and set a quit date – we suggest making it no longer than a month or two away
• Had a bit of a stumble? It’s ok. Most people try a number of times before they quit for good – relapse is common. Just put it behind you and try again when you feel ready.

Building motivation

This is the time to reflect on your own personal reasons for quitting. Write them down as a reminder.

Book a call with Quitline

Quitline can be great support at this time, and they understand the challenges that come with making a quit attempt and know that relapse is a normal part of the quitting journey for some. They can help you identify what caused the relapse and come up with strategies to better deal with that situation if it happens again. They can set up future call backs with you to help you stay on track.

Click here if you’d like to request a Quitline Callback now or later down the track.