How to Address Tobacco Addiction in the Context of Alcoholism

Alcoholism recovery programs use several methods to treat the addiction. They include motivational enhancement strategies, learning cognitive-behavioral coping skills and using peer support groups. Alcoholism treatment also encourages total abstinence, so you must plan to quit smoking entirely and not just cut down. Alcohol therapy recommends that you consult an addiction counselor, and, although you may not need to, you may wish to do so if you fail to quit smoking without it.

Things You'll Need

• Telephone
• Internet (optional)
• Address book

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Instructions

Motivation Enhancement

• 1

  Think about the impact smoking has on your life, and the lives of your family and friends.

• 2

  Accept responsibility for smoking. Don't blame it on stress. Realize that smoking is a decision you make.

• 3

  Make a commitment to change your habit and stop smoking.

Coping Skills

• 4

  Find out what needs are filled by smoking, even if it is only a feeling of relaxation.

• 5

  Find new ways to satisfy those needs; perhaps a hobby, sports, physical exercise or reading.

• 6

  Learn to manage emotional needs and avoid emotional vulnerabilities.

Peer Support

• 7

  Make a list of friends who will support you, preferably non-smokers or people who have quit, and get their telephone numbers.

• 8

  Call someone on your list instead of lighting up when you have a desire to smoke.

• 9

  Join your local chapter of Nicotine Anonymous. They should be listed in the phone book. If not, go to you can find their website in the reference section.