Say goodbye to smoking: Tips for quitting on No Smoking Day
Why quitting smoking is important:
Smoking is a leading cause of preventable death worldwide. It increases your risk of developing serious health conditions such as heart disease, lung cancer, and stroke. Second hand smoke can also negatively impact the health of those around you, including family members and friends. By quitting smoking, you can significantly reduce your risk of these health problems and improve your overall quality of life.
Tips for quitting smoking:
1. Set a quit date: Choose a specific date to quit smoking and mark it on your calendar. Having a clear goal in mind can help you stay focused and motivated.
2. Seek support: Don't be afraid to reach out for support from friends, family, or healthcare professionals. Let them know that you're quitting smoking and ask for their encouragement and understanding.
3. Identify triggers: Pay attention to the situations, emotions, or activities that trigger your cravings for cigarettes. Once you identify these triggers, you can develop strategies to avoid or cope with them.
4. Use Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT): Nicotine Replacement Therapy, such as using patches, gum, or lozenges, can help reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist to find the right NRT option for you.
5. Stay active: Engaging in regular physical activity can help distract you from cravings and reduce stress. Try to incorporate exercise into your daily routine, whether it's going for a walk, bike ride, or participating in a fitness class.
6. Practice stress management: Smoking is often used as a coping mechanism for stress. Explore alternative ways to manage stress, such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or hobbies that you enjoy.
7. Stay positive: Quitting smoking is a journey, and it's normal to experience setbacks along the way. Instead of being hard on yourself, focus on your progress and celebrate your successes, no matter how small.
Quitting smoking is a challenging but rewarding journey that can greatly improve your health and quality of life. On No Smoking Day, take the first step towards a smoke-free future by committing to quit smoking. Remember that you're not alone, and there are many resources and support systems available to help you succeed.
Support and services and information for quitting smoking:
Healthy You is the stop smoking service in Cambridgeshire. The team of specialists are ready to help local people who want to quit smoking. It doesn't matter if you're young and just started smoking or if you've been smoking for a long time. They can support you on your journey to quitting. The team offers a 12-week program with access to medications like nicotine patches, Zyban, and Varenicline through NHS prescriptions to increase your chances of success. For more information, go to:
