Operation Nobacco has begun. (Or: NuclearDem tries to kick a nasty habit)

[Wounded Bear]

1. That's a tough way to go...

'tapering off' almost never works, but hey, what do I know?

I quit many years ago (during the Carter administration if you must know). It took me three tries, but once I finally put them down I made it, as they say, Cold Turkey. Don't dip, or chew, or smoke pipes or cigars because you think "It's something I can't do all the time so what can it hurt?" It's a bit like non-alcoholic beer. It's for non-alcoholics. Any source of nicotine should be avoided, especially in the first few crucial months. The first two times I relapsed on cigs it was cigars and pipes that got me hooked back. Having said all that, patches, gums, and some new medications have been known to help in some cases.

You'll probably need a more intimate support group than just here. Explore options in 12 step program and other 'self help' (I kind of hate that term) organizations. Make sure all your IRL friends know about this and support you in it. If they don't, dump them-at least temporarily. If they care so little about you to not support you in this, they're not really friends. It's true. Trust me on that. Many, many addicts of all stripes have been thwarted by their closest intimates. Certainly be very wary of spending time with any heavy smokers.

Many insurance companies and employers have avenues in smoking cessation treatment. At least give it a look.

Best of luck! You can do it!

Oh, on edit: http://www.democraticunderground.com/?com=forum&id=1153