Advice – Smoking

Smoking is a big health issue, and since the smoking ban came into force in July 2007, it has been reported over 400,000 smokers have quite since the ban was implemented. With some helpful tips and advice you could give up to!

Here are 4 steps to get you started!

Step 1

Decision time – To smoke or not to smoke… To be successful at quitting is solely up to you and your willpower. You can do it, you just need to get through the psychological barrier, and remember, to key to giving up smoking is to not smoke!

Step 2

Set a date – Although giving up does get easier the longer you continue with it, the support from friends and family can be a massive help, by telling them the date you’ve decided to quit will make it clear you need support from then onwards.

Step 3

NRT Method - Choosing the right Nicotine Replacement Therapy for you is important, as the first few days without nicotine can be the hardest in fighting the physical addiction. Remember, your GP can provide you with treatment, and there are loads of stop smoking organizations out there to help you quit! Here are just a few common NRT methods:

Gum           Nicotine is absorbed through the mouth, and chewing helps
                  with the feeling of doing something habitually
Patches       Patches can range from 16-24hours, your bodies constantly
                  receiving nicotine in a healthy way
Inhalator       Just like a plastic cigarette, helps with the hand to mouth
                aspect of smoking
Microtabs     Small, nicotine containing tablets that dissolve under your
                tongue
Lozenges     Can take 20-30mins to dissolve, nicotine is slowly
                released
Nasal spray   A swift effective dose of nicotine through the lining of the
                nose

Step 4

Stick to your guns – Finding new routines is crucial; after all smoking was a habit/routine! Each day you continue to quit means more money in the bank, and more time to do the things you want to! Regular treats and feeling good about yourself are all part of the benefits of quitting! Temptation will always be there, but how you deal with it the important thing – remember doing some exercise or catching up with a friend will prove to leaving you feeling good.

Other help is available from many sources here are just a few:

www.quit.org.uk/
www.smokefree.nhs.uk/
www.NiQuitin.co.uk

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