When it comes to smoking, the opposite of the old adage is true: Quitters always win. If you want to quit smoking and make it stick, keep these simple but powerful tips in mind.
Find your motivation.
Define a concrete reason to quit, whether its to improve your health, be a good example for your children or save money.
Be accountable to someone.
Let friends and loved ones know that you're trying to kick the habit. It will help to keep you honest and on track, and allow them to lend support along the way.
Don't make deals with yourself.
Letting yourself sneak a cigarette today will only make it harder for you to get through tomorrow.
Do something else.
Find stress-relief alternatives: taking walks, biking, talking to friends, knitting whatever works for you.
Find strength in numbers
Support groups foster a sense of solidarity and let you know you're not in it alone.
Don't latch onto lapses.
Theres no shame in stumbling. If you fall off the wagon, don't beat yourself up, just climb back on.
Conquer the Craving
To help combat nicotine cravings, you can discuss several effective options with your doctor:
- Nicotine Patches: Just remember, smoking while wearing a patch is extremely dangerous.
- Nicotine Gums and Lozenges: For those who still need that oral fix connected to their nicotine intake.
- Prescription Nicotine Inhalers and Nasal Sprays: If you simply must breathe it in, this is the closest you can come.
Get Support
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) offers free resources to help you quit, including an app that features technological aid (track cravings by day and location) and motivational tools. Learn more about it here.
If you need medically-guided support to quit smoking, we are always here. Find an AdventHealth physician near you who can help.
