Hello to both of you!
Lucy, I have shared your experience for many years. Had to lose the booze, cigs, sugar, caffiene, etc. and had to get exercise too.
As far as the patch is concerned, it definitely triggered panic attacks for me because of the physical symptoms you described, particularly the rapid heartbeat. I just ripped it off, threw all of them away, and quit cold turkey. It was awful, but not as bad as the patch, at least not for me. However, you should talk to your doctor, because there may be medications, such as Wellbutrin, that can help you quit smoking and also ease a little anxiety (if kept at a low dose).
Also, want to be free: I must say that I know exactly what you are talkig about concerning trying to "gut it out" without taking the meds. I have been engaged in a 10-year argument with myself about taking Xanax. That's why I am taking this 12-week program. I want to learn skills that really will help me deal with my panic and anxiety rather than just white-knuckling it until I can't stand it anymore, then taking the meds, then feeling like a failure and possibly a drug addict. Who needs all that negativity? I hope this course can help me with that.
Warm regards,
Liz B.
