I started smoking at the age of 16. I smoked for 28 years with many short periods of time in those 28 years that I unsuccessfully tried quitting smoking. I first tried cold turkey after about 10 years of smoking. Did not work, could not get over the withdrawal, both physical and mental symptoms. Once nic gum was available over the counter, I tried quitting using the gum and then became addicted to the gum. I also became a closet smoker. I would smoke when I was away from my family, at work, on errands by myself I would smoke like a chimney but when I was at home I would chew nic gum to keep the withdrawal symptoms at bay. Once I realized I was just as addicted to nic gum as I was to smoking, I decided to try using the patches with the gum. I was able to stay off cigs completely for about 3 months (longest time ever) using this method. Again, when I weaned myself off the patches, I was still addicted to the nic gum. Since neither of these options worked successfully, I went to the doctors and got a prescription for Chantix. There were two problems with this option, it was VERY cost prohibitive and the side effects, weight gain and depression hit me and I had to stop. After my last attempt with Chantix, I went back to smoking full time. I continued to smoke for about 5 1/2 years until I discovered electronic cigs. I have been completely smoke free for almost 9 months and I feel great. The electronic cig has been successful for me because I am receiving the nicotine, the drug I am addicted to AND I get the hand to mouth habit. I have significantly reduced the nicotine level in the juices I use. My goal is to one day drop to zero nicotine but will probably continue to use my electronic cig because it keeps my hands busy and keeps me from snacking and gaining weight. Electronic Cigs have literally changed and saved my life.