Three Tips for Stopping Smoking

Smoking is, for many of us, an addictive habit we learned while we were young and weren’t consciously aware or interested in the implications it can have on many areas of our overall health, functioning, and well-being. For others, we’ve always been aware of the potential risks of smoking but have used it for the perceived temporary stress relief, social benefits, or fulfilment of identity needs.

Nonetheless, if you’re reading this, you’re probably eager to make a change or break the habit you or a loved one has developed over several years. But if you’re still on the fence and aren’t convinced that quitting smoking will have any profoundly positive benefits on your overall quality of life, here are some of the things research suggests will happen if you overcome your nicotine addiction.

You’ll save vast amounts of money: Even if you’re not interested in living a healthier lifestyle, most smokers would tell you that the price of cigarettes is too expensive and they’re not happy with the amount they must spend on cigarettes every single week. Research suggests that an individual who smokes 10 cigarettes a day can expect to spend roughly £2,091 a year by quitting smoking. Think of the potential ways you could spend this money to live a more fulfilling life. 

You’ll increase your life expectancy: Our time on this planet is limited, and it’s counterproductive to cut into it by failing to get over a smoking addiction that you know isn’t providing you with what you really want out of life. Studies show that regular smokers reduce their life expectancy by roughly ten years, so finding ways that help you quit is vital in ensuring you get the opportunity to live a long and satisfying health and lifespan. 

You’ll improve cardiovascular performance: Are you a casual athlete? In recent years cardiovascular activities such running, hiking, and rock climbing have absolutely boomed, and you may be limiting the extent to which you can excel in these activities by smoking. Heavy smokers experience an increase in lactic acid that negatively impacts sporting performance, and even everyday activities like walking up the stairs.

HOW TO STOP SMOKING

Now that we’ve established three key reasons why you should look for ways to stop smoking today, let’s understand the best methods for overcoming this crippling addiction.

1.    Speak to a doctor

Wanting to overcome any kind of addiction can be a sensitive subject you may be apprehensive about sharing, but doctors are trained to communicate considerately, demonstrate empathy, as well as possessing a wealth of medical knowledge to base their opinion and guidance off. 

It’s never been as convenient to receive consultation from a doctor about quitting smoking; you don’t even need to have an in-person appointment. Online organisations such as Anytime Doctor have experienced, professional doctors at hand to provide consultation and effective treatment strategies to help you quit smoking.

2.    Identify your triggers

Pay attention to situations, emotions, or activities that make you want to smoke. Common triggers include stress, social situations, and certain times of the day. Once you know your triggers, you can develop strategies to avoid or manage them.

3.    Stay positive and be patient

Quitting smoking is a process, and it’s normal to experience setbacks along the way. Stay positive and remind yourself of the reasons why you want to quit. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and don’t get discouraged if you slip up – just keep plugging away.