How Do You Effectively Stop Smoking?

Many smokers are eager to quit because of the risks associated with their health. However, giving up smoking might be difficult. Local stop smoking services, however, are free, welcoming and significantly increase your chances of successfully quitting. A variety of effective cessation aids are offered by pharmacies. Keep reading to find out how to give up smoking fast!

What is the most effective way to give up smoking?

Get ready to quit smoking completely with these five steps — just remember to take it one step at a time.

1. Set your “Quit Day” & take a No Smoking pledge

Your "Quit Day" is the day you've chosen to stop using tobacco products within the next seven days. Make a vow or pledge in front of others who will encourage you to quit. Use the period leading up to your quit day to get ready and progressively cut back on your cigarette use or use of other tobacco products.

2. Find a way to give up smoking

A variety of methods exist for quitting smoking. Whatever you feel will work best for you, either pick one or combine them. Examples include:

- "Cold turkey". On your Quit Day, put an end to smoking immediately. Some people find that this approach works best because it expedites the quitting process.
- Reduce the number of cigarettes you smoke or the number of times you vape each day until you stop entirely.

3. Contact your pharmacist or doctor

Determine whether you'll require medication or other assistance to successfully quit by speaking with your doctor or pharmacist.

4. Have some plans for the Quit Day and afterwards

Have healthy snacks available, like:

- Fruits and vegetables
- Nuts and seeds
- Air-popped popcorn
- Sugar-free mints and chewing gum

Find enjoyable ways to fill the time when you may be tempted to smoke:

- Go to a movie
- Work out or go to the gym
- Visit non-smoking friends
- Take a walk
- Enjoy a cup of coffee or tea
- Try a new hobby that occupies your hands, like painting, playing an instrument, woodworking or knitting
- Work in the garden

You should also discard all cigarettes, matches, lighters, ashtrays, and other tobacco products from your house, place of business, and vehicle.

5. Final day

Finally, stop smoking tobacco for good on your Quit Day!

What can I replace smoking with?

Nicotine cravings are one of the biggest barriers to quitting smoking, as everyone who has tried will attest to. Cravings can be extremely strong for the majority of smokers, and if you're not prepared to deal with them, they can quickly wear you out. However, every time you are able to withstand these cravings, you get one step closer to achieving your objective of permanently giving up smoking.

Below are some of the things you can do as a replacement for smoking:

- Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT)
- Practice relaxation techniques
- Engage in some exercise or physical activities
- Chew something to occupy your mind and distract yourself

How long does it take to give up smoking?

To most people, withdrawal symptoms completely disappear after two to four weeks. However, for some individuals, they may last longer.

Shop online at Chemist.net for the best products to help you quit smoking effectively. You can also visit your local Knights Pharmacy for advice on how to quit smoking.

 

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This blog post was written on behalf of Chemist.net by Pharmacy Mentor.

 

Updated October 2022