If you are planning on quitting, there are plenty of things you can do to help yourself finally give up for good.
1. Write down your reasons for quitting
You don’t need to have a list as long as your arm to make this task effective, just having one reason is more than enough.
2. Go cold turkey
Allowing yourself to gradually quit will not only make the process longer, but it will also make it a lot harder. When you do decide to give them up for good make sure you say goodbye to them completely.
3. Ask family and friends for support
No matter how much you may try, you won’t be able to quit on your own. You will need your family’s and your friends’ support. Call a helpline if you feel like you could do with some preofessional advice.
4. Change your daily routine
May smokers reach for a cigarette after their morning coffee or when they are out walking the dog - these are called triggers and it is important your change your routine to avoid them. Taking yourself out of situations where you would usually light up will go a long way in helping you quit.
5. Face your cravings head on
There is not point trying to ignore your cravings, you need to be able to handle them so that you aren’t left struggling to get through them.
Remember the four Ds:
- Delay satisfying the craving by three minutes
- Drink a glass of water
- Distract yourself
- Breathe deeply
6. Have a money jar
Every time you fight a craving or don’t buy a packet of cigarettes put a certain sum of money in a jar and watch your savings grow.
7. Take your time
This is not something that is going to happen overnight; giving up takes times, perseverance and patience – so be kind to yourself.
The HSE’s Quit.ie is both an online and freephone support service that will help you stop smoking.
