REASONS TO QUIT SMOKING

If you smoke, the choice to quit is a decision that will benefit your health. Smoking increases the risk of several types of cancer. It can also lead to heart and lung diseases. If you are coping with a diagnosis of cancer, it may be very stressful to quit smoking. However, research has shown that non-smokers have fewer side effects during cancer treatment. If you are ready to quit, stopping smoking will help you feel better and healthier.

You will find that quitting has many benefits:

  • Health benefits.
  • Economic benefits.
  • Physical benefits.
  • Benefits for your family – protecting them from the harmful effects of secondary smoke.

GETTING READY TO QUIT SMOKING

Quitting smoking may be disheartening at first. You may find that the stress of dealing with a cancer diagnosis makes it even more difficult. However, there are several things you can do to prepare yourself to quit. You will likely find it useful to start by thinking of the benefits of quitting and make a list of the reasons why you are doing it.

You can start by doing the following:

  • setting a quit date and planning out your first day being smoke-free.
  • get rid of cigarettes, ashtrays, and lighters.
  • try to find other ways to deal with stress.
  • eat healthy snacks.

It is important to have support. Friends and family can help, and so can your doctor. You can also take medication to calm your urges.

When quitting smoking, you may find it is a good idea to establish a routine in which you avoid situations where you will be most tempted to smoke. And don't forget to reward yourself when you reach your goals. You may choose to use the money you saved on cigarettes to buy a gift for your family or for yourself.


STAYING SMOKE-FREE

It may take several months for your to turn into a non-smoker. During the first several days, the symptoms of withdrawal can be very hard to withstand, though they will get better with each day you don't smoke. The following suggestions may help:

Choose to spend your time with non-smokers and ex-smokers who will support you in your effort to quit.

Find other activities you enjoy and use these to take the place of smoking.

Remind yourself of your reasons for quitting. Quitting smoking is a commitment you make to yourself, and while it takes great will-power, it has enormous benefits.

Marks the days that have gone by since your quit on your calendar to see how well you are doing.

Benefit from it. Use the money you would have spent on smoking to buy yourself something you like. You may wish to use part of the money to buy small presents each week, such as DVDs, a nice meal, or a massage. Also, you might want to save up for a bigger reward, such as a special night out or a holiday.

Don't give up on your attempt to quit smoking, even if you aren't successful the first time around. Most people need several tries before they quit completely. Remember that quitting smoking is very hard for most people. Try to get the most help you can.