Deal With Stress Without Smoking

All of us have stress in our lives, but most smokers have learned to deal with it in part by having a cigarette. If you no longer have cigarettes to help you cope with stress, what else can you do?
· Deal with any problems right away. Smokers sometimes use cigarettes as a way to avoid dealing with a problem. Smoking puts distance between themselves and the problem situation or person. Of course, it doesn't solve the problem that is causing the stress.
· Look at the big picture. Sometimes people find themselves get- ting very upset over problems that are actually quite small. For example, a flat tire is frustrating, but it will not have any lasting effect on your life.
· Learn how to relax. Relaxation is a skill that many people have found useful. But it is a skill that requires learning and practice. Your library or bookstore should have informative books and tapes on the subject.
· Give yourself time to let the mood pass. Once time passes, problems often seem less stressful.
· Get support from others. Talking to a friend or to other people with the same problems can be a great reliever of stress. For people who have more severe problems relating to stress and negative moods, a support group or counseling may be helpful.