Trials have shown that an effective method for quitting smoking is cognitive behaviour therapy..
One effective way to assist smokers who want to quit is through a telephone quitline which is easily available to all. Professionally run quitlines may help less addicted smokers but those more severely addicted to cigarettes should seek out their local smoking cessation services, where they exist, or assistance from a knowledgeable health professional, where they do not.
Evidence shows that best results are achieved when support and medication are used simultaneously. Quitting with a group of other people who want to quit is a proven method of getting support, available through many organizations.
A serious commitment to arresting a dependency upon smoking nicotine is essential. Medication, such as a nicotine replacement therapy product have been clinically proven to double a quitter's chances of stopping successfully versus placebo.
However, critics have drawn attention recently to the risks associated with the administration of nicotine, a poison, to pregnant women and adolescents (Ginzel et. al., 2007).
Although a significant proportion are successful, many people fail several times. Many smokers find it difficult to quit, even in the face of serious smoking-related disease in themselves or close family members or friends.
Studies have concluded that those who do successfully quit smoking often gain weight. "Weight gain is not likely to negate the health benefits of smoking cessation, but its cosmetic effects may interfere with attempts to quit." (Williamson, Madans et al, 1991) Therefore, drug companies researching smoking-cessation medication often measure the weight of the participants in the study.
Tobacco smoking has a laxative effect, smoking cessation can lead to constipation.
Major depression may influence smoking cessation in women. Quitting smoking is especially difficult during certain phases of the reproductive cycle, phases that have also been associated with greater levels of dysphoria, and subgroups of women who have a high risk of continuing to smoke also have a high risk of developing depression. Since many women who are depressed may be less likely to seek formal cessation treatment, practitioners have a unique opportunity to persuade their patients to quit.
Things To Avoid When You Quit Smoking
- Don't Be Impatient
- Don't be Negative
- Don't Neglect Yourself ( eat a well-balanced diet, get more rest, drink water, exercise daily, take a daily multi-vitamin )
- Don't Drink (Alcohol and tobacco go hand-in-hand)
- Don't Overdo
- Don't Take Yourself Too Seriously
- Don't be Afraid to Ask for Help
Don't forget. You quit smoking for a reason. Probably several. Don't let time and distance from the habit cloud your thinking. Keep your memory green by reviewing your reasons often. They will never be less true as time goes by, but they can feel less critical if you're not careful.
Cessation is a journey. Take it one simple day at a time, and you'll find that what started out as a difficult task soon enough becomes an enjoyable challenge.