NICOTINE

Nihar Hasabnis is a former addict who overcame a 17-year dependency on nicotine and an 8-year struggle with alcohol. His addiction included chain-smoking, daily gutkha consumption, and regular alcohol use. Despite multiple unsuccessful attempts to quit, he found lasting recovery after admitting himself to Muktangan Rehabilitation Centre in Pune on July 29, 2011.

Since that pivotal day, Nihar has remained completely substance-free. He now serves as a counselor at Muktangan, guiding others through their own recovery journeys. His personal experience has become a source of strength and empathy in his counseling work.

In his booklet, Nihar shares both his personal journey and practical strategies for quitting nicotine. He emphasizes that while the initial withdrawal phase is challenging, cravings typically subside after 3-4 months of abstinence. He also stresses that relapses are preventable once this phase is overcome, and reintroducing nicotine should be avoided to maintain recovery.

Today, Nihar leads a fulfilling life, married since 2013 and a proud father of an 11-year-old son. His story stands as a testament to the possibility of transformation and the power of resilience.