Already Registered, Log In
Be Smoke Free
It's not easy, but your Health Matters
It's no secret that smoking can be harmful to your health, but that doesn't mean that it is easy to give up. Quitting takes practice, determination and a lot of patience. Thousands of people give up smoking each year and you can too! (link to Why You Should Quit)
Ready to quit? Take it one step at a time.
Step 1: Decide To Quit
Timing is everything. It's best to quit when stress levels are low. But let's face it, stress never goes completely away. Still, some times are better than others. Choose a time that is right for you.
Step 2: Get Ready To Quit
Many smokers fail because they don't have a plan for what they will do when the urge to smoke hits. Use the Hard Habits to Break worksheet to help you plan ahead and prevent pitfalls.
Step 3: Quit
You know yourself best, so choose a method of quitting that is right for you. Whether it's cold turkey, cutting back, nicotine replacements or hypnosis, pick the one where you are most likely to succeed.
Step 4: Stay Tobacco-Free
Remember that it's easier to quit one-day-at-a-time than to quit forever. Slips are common in any type of lifestyle change, but one cigarette does not have to lead to a whole pack. Here are some helpful tips for staying on track.
- Use positive self talk to help you stay smoke free.
- Try other activities when the urge to smoke hits. And keep in mind that the urge to use tobacco always goes away. In fact, it only lasts from a few seconds to five minutes and it stops whether you use tobacco or not!
- Reward yourself along the way.
- Ask for help when you need it.
- Stay away or minimize 'triggers' that cue you to want to smoke.
