Stop smoking tips

As we mentioned in a recent post, the Government has instigated a ban on smoking in cars with under-18s. This ban came into effect on 1st October, a date that also marks the beginning of Stoptober.

Stoptober is a scheme supported by the NHS to encourage people to quit smoking for the 31 days in October. The theory behind this is that if you can quit for 31 days, you are less likely to pick up the habit again.

If you are trying to quit smoking this month, the following tips may be helpful.

Make a plan

Write a list of trigger moments and how you intend to overcome these cravings. By thinking ahead, you won’t be caught off-guard and you’ll be more likely to stay strong and not smoke.

Find support

Most local doctor surgeries offer support groups for those quitting smoking. This can help you feel less alone while giving you the opportunity to hear other people’s stories and share tips. If you don’t feel up to attending a meeting in person, you can look online for support.

Try hypnotherapy

Instead of simply curbing cravings like other stop smoking aids, hypnotherapy intends to change the way you think about smoking and eliminate cravings altogether. While the approach may not work for everyone, it is natural, safe and side effect free so is certainly worth trying.

Keep your hands busy

To help get you out of the habit of holding a cigarette, try to do something else with your hands when you feel a craving come on. The NHS recommend using your smoking hand to hold your drink and using a straw to give your mouth something to do. You may also want to try Nicotine Replacement Therapies like gum and sweets.

Clean up

Get rid of anything smoking related from your house. This includes ashtrays and lighters. You should also wash any clothes that smell of smoke and clean your carpets, curtains etc. to get rid of the smell of smoke from your home.

Start a new hobby

To keep your mind active, try starting a new hobby. Try something creative like drawing or better still, exercising. This will reduce your stress levels and keep you in the ‘healthy’ mindset.

Avoid triggers

Whether it’s alcohol, coffee or a certain place – try to avoid your smoking triggers. If you can’t avoid them, have a strategy in place to stop you from giving into temptation.

Quit with a friend

If a friend of yours is looking to quit smoking too, do it together. This can help you stay motivated and you can use each other for support when cravings strike.

Don’t quit quitting

If you do find yourself lighting up again, don’t write the experience off as a failure. Look at it as a slip up and start again from fresh.