... when you quit the durries!

Irritability, coughing, difficulty concentrating or cravings are some of the withdrawal symptoms a person may experience when they quit smoking.  This is the body's way of breaking its dependence on nicotine - the addictive chemical in cigarettes.

Smokers trying to quit may may find the experience unpleasant and stressful.  The good news however is that it's temporary and the long-term benefits to your health far outweight any short-lived unpleasantness.  

In fact withdrawal symptoms are usually at its worst in the first 48 hours and will gradually decrease in a couple of weeks.

How to cope

Stay positive and don't be hard on yourself if you have a setback (i.e. light up again).  Try nicotine replacement therapy and try to change habits and triggers for smoking.  It's also a good idea to let family, friends and others know you're giving up cigarettes so they can support you or know why you're not your usual self. 

Where to get help

Speak to your GP or health worker at your local health service or contact Quitline on 13 78 48.

Did you know the current smoking rate for pregnant women in Australia is 14.5 percent? It's even higher in rural and remote areas and amongst specific cultural groups - like our mob.  

If you’re a smoker you most likely know the harm tobacco causes to your health. Similarly smoking before or during pregnancy can lead to serious complications for the baby and mother.

Click on the video link below to view a smoking and pregancy video clip developed by the Department of Health.

If you or someone you know has an unnatural preoccupation with eating, exercising or with their weight or body shape it may be a sign of an eating disorder.  

Anoxeria and bulimia are some examples of eating disorders and often require treatment to overcome them.

Non-profit group, the Isis Eating Issues Centre in Brisbane, offer a range of therapeutic and educational services to people experiencing or at risk of developing eating issues.  

Listen to our message featuring the centre's co-ordinator, Amanda Dearden.

The Stayin' Strong project is funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing.  Read more.