Christie Clinic: Tips as you quit smoking

By Dr. Danish Thameem, Christie Clinic Department of Pulmonary Medicine

Quitting smoking is one of the most important things you can do for your health. It can be challenging, but with the right strategies and support, you can successfully quit smoking. Here are some tips for smoking cessation:

Set a quit date: Choose a day to quit smoking, and stick to it. This can help you mentally prepare for the challenge ahead.

Find support: Tell your friends and family that you are quitting smoking, and ask for their support. You can also join a support group or seek the help of a healthcare provider who specializes in smoking cessation.

Identify your triggers: Pay attention to when you smoke, and identify the triggers that cause you to light up. This can help you develop strategies to avoid or cope with those triggers.

Use nicotine replacement therapy: Nicotine replacement therapy, such as gum, patches, or lozenges, can help reduce cravings and ease withdrawal symptoms.

Practice stress management: Stress can trigger the urge to smoke, so it’s important to find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, meditation, or deep breathing.

Keep busy: Find activities to keep your hands and mind occupied, such as taking a walk, chewing gum, or playing a game.

Avoid alcohol and other triggers: Alcohol can lower your inhibitions and increase the likelihood of relapse. It’s also important to avoid other triggers, such as being around other smokers or going to places where you used to smoke.

Remember, quitting smoking is a process, and it’s common to experience setbacks along the way. Don’t get discouraged if you slip up – just get back on track and keep working towards your goal. With the right strategies and support, you can successfully quit smoking and improve your health.

*This information is provided in paid partnership.