Quitting Smoking If You Drink Alcohol

Drinking alcohol when you're quitting smoking can be a big challenge, for two reasons:

1. Alcohol is a trigger.

For many, drinking and smoking just go together.

2. Alcohol lowers your guard.

It makes you more likely to stop using your plan. And, it makes you more likely to do something without thinking it through all the way, like asking for a cigarette.

For these reasons, it's best to stay away from alcohol for the first few weeks of quitting. Even afterwards, be careful when you're drinking alcohol, especially where others are smoking.