by Casual Writer

Created on: February 26, 2007   Last Updated: April 18, 2007

For any would be ex-smoker, ex-alcoholic, ex-meth addict, it's an important first step to accept the fact that one will be an addict for the rest of his life. This acknowledgment will ensure he remains a "quitter" by being aware. Quitters cannot let their guard down in situations where they are exposed to the thing they are addicted to.

Although quitters are no longer using the addictive substance, they are always at risk of falling off the wagon. Research shows that the area of the brain that governs drives are permanently altered by the addictive substance.

Addictive substances are also often associated with a social activity, stress reduction, or relaxation. In one of his experiments, Pavlov gave dogs meat. When the dogs saw the meat they started to salivate. Pavlov then started to ring a bell before giving the dogs meat. And each time they would salivate in anticipation of getting the meat. After ringing the bell and giving the meat to the dogs for a few trials, the dogs began to salivate just by the ringing of the bell. His findings can help to explain why people often crave addictive substances when they are in situations or places they associate with the addictive substance.

For example, alcohol is often associated with good times, relaxation, and socializing with friends. When someone becomes addicted, that association makes it that much more difficult to break the addiction. In these cases, it is really important to look at other areas of the person's life. Focusing on improving the quality of food and nutrition will give the addict more energy and vitality to fight their addictions.

After smoking for 22 years, I quit smoking a year and a half ago, and it was one of the hardest things I ever did. I still get cravings from time to time, but I remind myself about the reasons I stopped. So here are a few things that helped me quit smoking that one could try with all addictions:

- Ask yourself when you experience the strongest cravings. This is important to know since everyone is different in what circumstances they use the addictive substance. Only you can determine when you will have the most difficulty. Takes steps to keep yourself out of that situation until you have overcome the addiction.

- Avoid the addictive substance in the short term. This is important in the beginning phases of quitting. Temptation should be minimized. Get rid of any traces of the addictive substance and anything associated with it from your home. Stay away from people and places

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