It’s been a few months since I took the plunge and quit smoking. I’ve had some time to reflect on how I feel since making that change. I also cut down on drinking alcohol a month ago, which has been another significant shift in my lifestyle. Quitting smoking was a decision I’d been putting off for ages. I’ve tried to give it up before, but this time felt different. I was fed up with the smell, the coughing, and the whole routine of needing a cigarette to unwind. One day, I just decided enough was enough. I didn’t have any grand plans; it was more of an impulsive decision. I woke up and thought, “Why not?”

The first week was a bit of a rollercoaster. I had cravings that were hard to ignore, but I kept myself busy. I found that going for walks or getting into a good book really helped take my mind off the urges. Surprisingly, I didn’t find myself feeling overly grumpy, which is often the stereotype of quitting smoking. I actually felt pretty empowered. As the weeks went on, I noticed some changes that I wasn’t expecting. My sense of smell has improved dramatically. I can actually smell food cooking now, and it’s amazing how much I enjoy the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. It’s the little things that have made a big difference.

Alongside quitting smoking, I’ve also scaled back my alcohol intake. I’m not completely off it—I still enjoy a pint on occasion—but I’ve cut down significantly. I don’t drink at home at all anymore, and the only time I do drink is once a week or less when I have one or two pints with my dad at our local pub. I realised that I was using alcohol to relax, but it was often leading to late nights and feeling rough the next day. By not drinking as much, I’ve noticed I wake up feeling more refreshed and ready to tackle the day. I want to aim for completely quitting alcohol altogether, as I’ve come to understand that it doesn’t really help me. In fact, it often makes my mental health a lot worse. This realisation has been crucial for me.

The benefits of both quitting smoking and cutting back on alcohol have been noticeable. I have more energy than I did a few months ago. I’m sleeping better, and I’ve even started exercising more regularly. I wouldn’t say I’m training for a marathon or anything, but I’ve been maintaining my routine of home workouts every day. It’s amazing what a bit of fresh air and physical activity can do for your mood. On top of that, my skin seems to be clearer, and I’m feeling less bloated. It’s as if my body is finally catching up after years of neglecting it with cigarettes and excessive drinking. I didn’t expect to see such quick results, but I’m really pleased with how I’m feeling.

Looking ahead, I want to maintain this momentum. I know it’s easy to slip back into old habits, but I’m committed to sticking with these changes. I feel healthier and more in control of my life, and I want to keep it that way. I’m also excited about what the future holds—less dependence on smoking and drinking means more freedom to explore new activities and interests. 

Quitting smoking and drinking is not just about the physical changes; it’s also about the mental clarity that comes with it. I’ve started to feel more present in my daily life. I’m more aware of my surroundings and able to appreciate things I often took for granted. I’ve even started to enjoy my own company more. There’s something empowering about realising that I don’t need a crutch like cigarettes or alcohol to enjoy life or to cope with stress.

Of course, there are challenges ahead. There will be times when I might feel tempted to have a drink or a smoke, especially during stressful times. However, I feel more equipped to handle these cravings now. I’ve learned some techniques to cope with the urges. Breathing exercises, mindfulness, and simply stepping outside for a moment to clear my head have all been useful strategies. 

Overall, my journey of quitting smoking and cutting down on alcohol has been transformative. I feel like I’m becoming a better version of myself—one who is more in tune with my body and mind. I’m looking forward to continuing down this path and discovering what else I can achieve. This is just the beginning, and I’m ready to face whatever comes next.

Living with mixed depression and anxiety disorder can present unique challenges, but over time, I've discovered several strategies that have helped me navigate the ups and downs of daily life. While these tips may not cure anxiety, they can certainly provide relief and improve overall well-being.

Routine and Planning Ahead: Establishing a routine and planning ahead has been a game-changer for me. Knowing what to expect and having a structured schedule helps alleviate uncertainty and reduces feelings of overwhelm. By breaking down tasks into manageable steps and sticking to a consistent routine, I've found a sense of stability and control in my day-to-day life.

Diet and Hydration: The connection between gut health and mental health is profound. Maintaining a balanced diet and staying hydrated are essential for nurturing both body and mind. Consuming nutrient-rich foods and drinking plenty of water supports overall well-being, helping to regulate mood and reduce anxiety. Incorporating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, and vitamins B and D can be particularly beneficial for mental health.

Sleep Routine and Adequate Rest: Quality sleep is crucial for managing anxiety and maintaining emotional balance. Establishing a consistent sleep routine and ensuring you get enough rest tailored to your individual needs is vital. While I find that 5-6 hours of sleep is sufficient for me, it's essential to listen to your body and adjust accordingly. Prioritising sleep practices, such as limiting screen time before bed and creating a calming bedtime ritual, can improve sleep quality.

Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity, even if it's just a workout at home, is incredibly beneficial for anxiety relief. Exercise releases endorphins, chemicals in the brain that act as natural mood lifters, reducing feelings of stress and anxiety. Additionally, physical activity helps regulate cortisol levels, improves sleep quality, and enhances overall mental well-being. Whether it's yoga, strength training, or a brisk walk, finding activities that you enjoy and incorporating them into your routine can significantly alleviate anxiety symptoms.

Blogging, Journaling, and Making Lists: Writing can be a powerful tool for processing emotions, gaining clarity, and reducing anxiety. Blogging, journaling, or simply making lists allows you to externalise your thoughts and feelings, providing a sense of release and perspective. By expressing yourself creatively and organising your thoughts on paper, you can gain insights into your triggers and coping mechanisms, fostering self-awareness and resilience.
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While these strategies have been invaluable in managing my anxiety, it's essential to remember that everyone's journey is unique. Finding what works best for you may involve trial and error, but with patience and perseverance, you can develop an effective toolkit for navigating life with greater ease and resilience.