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If you slip up, it’s okay. Just get back up on that horse again!

First of all, try not to feel discouraged. You are not a failure. It is very common to have a relapse when attempting to make a lifestyle change. Many people try several times before giving up cigarettes or vapes for good.

If you do slip up, don’t waste time thinking negative thoughts. You need to think positively: think about all of the times you have been able to resist. Think about how much you’ve learned about the quitting process, and about yourself.

Here are 3 steps to get you back on track after a slip up.

Stop smoking or vaping immediately

• If you do relapse, first thing to do is to STOP SMOKING OR VAPING IMMEDIATELY and throw away any remaining cigarettes or vapes. You cannot change the past, but you can ensure that you do not slip again.
• Remember that you have already proven that you can resist the cravings. 
• You were able to quit and deal with the cravings you experienced, even the strong ones right at the beginning.

Identify the trigger

• Slips and relapse can happen for many reasons. You need to identify what triggered you to have a cigarette or vape. You may have:
• Forgotten your goals in a stressful situation.
• Forgotten to use your non-smoking/non-vaping alternatives.
• Under-estimated a risky situation.
• Placed yourself in a high-risk situation before you were ready.

Adjust your plan

• Once you discover your trigger(s), make a note of it and what you could have done differently. Make a list of how you will cope with tempting situations in the future. Utilize all the new skills you’ve learned in coping and dealing with cravings.
• Remember, you can—and will—succeed! Believing that you can do it is crucial.