So tired - day 1 not smoking using patches

[YouAteTheSteak]

It's day 1 and I'm using a 14mg patch. Today has been fine so far - no mood swings and no terrible cravings. But I'm just so tired! Is that normal when you're using patches? My chest feels a bit tight too, but I'm guessing that's probably the shock of not inhaling crap into my lungs every couple of hours.

Did anyone else have this using patches? Will it pass quickly?

Have a wee nap if you feel it's needed. The first few days are hard. Sleeping through as much as you can if you can is a good strategy.

You're not getting a quick hit of stimulant (nicotine), as you're getting a low, fairly constant dose instead.

You know the breathing that you do when you're smoking - the pause everything else, deep inhale, hold and blowing out slowly? Try doing that as well, the extra oxygen will help, along with sipping chilled water.

The first three days can be more testing, but as long as you slap that fresh patch on the moment you open your eyes in the morning and have some more water (add ginger and/or lemon if you need it to taste of something), it's manageable.

Thank you, both.

I did have a nap in the end. Not that I'd planned to - I just couldn't keep my eyes open. I woke up with a bit of a headache, and really craved after my dinner, but the worst of it has passed now.

That breathing thing really does work, it's quite soothing.

Patch at the ready for day 2...