Every year, people around the world make a list of their New Year’s resolutions. But why wait for 2015 if you can quit smoking now.
According to statistics 7 out of 10 smokers want to quit. And out of this number only a few succeed. And from those who succeed, most of them tried several times. However, there are ways that can help you quit smoking for good even before New Year.
Make a Quit Plan
Planning in advance gives you a clear view on what you’ll be doing for the next few weeks until you finally free yourself from nicotine addiction. Your quit plan should include:
- A quit date. Starting your New Year cigarette-free would be a great idea.
- A day with your family to let them know you’re quitting. This is a good way to seek their support.
- Your reasons for quitting smoking. This serves as your constant reminder when you’re tempted to light a cigarette.
- Your lists of triggers. Identifying your triggers or the situations when you’re most likely to smoke helps you find a way to avoid them.
- Your lists of support group. This really helps especially during the first few weeks if you’re smoking cessation program
Find the Right Smoking Cessation Medication for You
Nicotine is as highly addictive as heroine. It is a powerful substance that makes you feel uncomfortable until your body adjusts to it. This transition is called the withdrawal, and there are prescription drugs and medications that can help you lessen the symptoms and urge to smoke. Research revealed that smokers who use prescription medicines together with quit smoking support group are more likely to succeed than those quit without. Consult your doctor or your health care provider, especially if you’re:
- Pregnant or nursing,
- Suffering from a medical condition,
- Currently under medication, and
- Under 18 years old.
There are several options available for you. Among the most common smoking cessation drugs and medication are Chantix, nicotine patches, nicotine gums, and nicotine lozenges.
Nicotine replacement therapies that need prescription include nasal sprays and nicotine inhalers. Varenicline (Chantix) also requires your physician’s prescription.
As New Year is fast approaching, quitting smoking now can be perfect, as you can start a healthier 2015. Smoking remains to be the leading cause of preventable death in the US. Quitting smoking now can help lessen your risk for smoking related diseases like lung cancer, coronary diseases, and more. Quitting smoking offers several benefits which includes fresher breath, whiter teeth, stronger stamina, better sex, etc. It makes you feel stronger and healthier. It also makes you feel better about yourself. So why wait for 2015 when you can start quitting smoking now and feel healthier.
