So how do I quit ?
If you have tried to quit
smoking, you know how hard it can be. That is because
nicotine is a very addictive drug. For some people, it
can be as addictive as heroin or cocaine. Within seconds
of taking a puff of smoke, nicotine travels to the brain.
It tells the brain to release chemicals that make you
want to smoke more.
Quitting is
hard. Usually people make 2 to 3 tries, or more, before
finally being able to quit. Studies have shown that each
time you try to quit, you will be stronger and will have
learned more about what helps and what hurts.
Anyone can quit
smoking. It does not matter about age, health, or
lifestyle. The decision to quit and your
success is greatly influenced by how much you want to
stop smoking.
Half of all
people
who have ever smoked
have quit.
You
Can Quit Smoking
1.Know that it will take effort to quit smoking.
Nicotine is habit forming. Half of the battle in quitting is
knowing you need to quit. This will help you be more able to
deal with the withdrawal that can occur, such as bad moods and
really wanting to smoke. Nearly all smokers have some feelings of
nicotine withdrawal when they try to quit. Give yourself a
month to get over these feelings. Take quitting one day at a time,
even one minute at a time-- whatever you need to succeed.
2.Use the Nicotine Patch or Nicotine Gum
The patch and gum help lessen the urge to smoke. The
nicotine in the patch and gum passes through the skin.
This reduces the craving for nicotine when you stop
smoking. It is important to follow the directions
carefully when using the patch or gum. Ask your health
care provider for advice or read the information in the
package.
While you
may still get cravings
to smoke, don't smoke while
using the patch or gum!
3.Set a target for yourself
You can't quit from day one. Set a date for yourself when will not smoke at all. Reduce the no. of cigrattes you smoke, day by day. Intake fewer puffs or use nicotine patch. Fight the urge, it will go away in a few minutes. Remember ! YOU HAVE TO QUIT ON YOUR WHEN THE DAY ARRIVES.
4.
Learn How To Handle Urges to Smoke and Stress
Be aware of things that may cause you to want to
smoke. For example:
->
Being around other smokers
->
Being under time pressure
->
Getting into an argument
->
Feeling sad or frustrated
->
Drinking alcohol
Avoid difficult situations while you are trying to
quit. Try to lower your stress level. Take time to do
things you enjoy. Exercise, such as walking, jogging, or
bicycling can also help. Write down on a piece of paper
the events, feelings, or activities that make you want a
cigarette. You may want to talk about them with your
health care provider or support group, or with a friend.
The key to handling an urge is to distract yourself
from thoughts of smoking:
->
Talk to someone
-> Get
busy with a task
->
Read a book
Write down on a piece of paper 3 things that will work
for you.
5. Half of all adult smokers have quit so you can,
too
That's the good news.There are millions of people alive
today who have learned to face life without a cigarette. For
staying healthy, quitting smoking is the best step you can take.
6. Get help if you need it.
Let people around you know that you intend to quit.
Your doctor or dentist is also a good source of help and
support.
You can do it !
All information/tips above has been taken from various anti-smoking sites on the net. I thank them all.
Send feedback and comments to prateek@indiamail.com