Stress Smokers Can Take This One Small Step Toward Healthier Coping

Clinical psychologist Raksha Rajesh, M.Sc., M.Phil., a Mitsu therapist, offers one small step to take for anyone who smokes when they’re feeling stressed — and wants to quit.

First, ask yourself: Are you feeling stressed and want a smoke to help you manage your stress? Or are you feeling stressed because you’re craving a smoke? It’s not a natural awareness, and may take several tries before you easily arrive at an answer.

Next, delay: Just do one thing before you go for that smoke — talk to a friend, go to the loo, or drink a glass of water. This gradually separates the act of smoking from the feeling of stress.

There’s a lot more to stopping a smoking habit, but taking even this one step can help you feel more empowered and in control.

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The information in this video has been vetted by:

Raksha Rajesh (M.Sc., M.Phil., CRR No. A80195) is a clinical psychologist licensed by the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI). She has 5+ years of experience in helping people from diverse backgrounds build skills to understand and manage their emotions.