How to quit smoking

Learning how to quit smoking is one of the most difficult journey’s that many people embark on. Not only is smoking addictive, but the actual act of smoking itself creates an addictive pattern that is difficult to break. There are probably hundreds of different methods that people use to quit smoking, but different methods work for different people. Some people are able to quit cold turkey, while others might need a combination of different methods in order to quit. The most important part of the journey is to make the decision to quit, and then you can figure out how you plan to do it. You will need to overcome several physical and mental hurdles, but it can be done. In this article, we’ll talk about different methods you can use to quit smoking and how you can learn more about them.

Quitting cold turkey involves simply not buying any more cigarettes and stopping without any drugs or treatment. For some, just recommending this method sounds ludicrous, but for others it isn’t as hard as it sounds. I was able to quit smoking cold turkey by simply deciding not to buy any more cigarettes. Although there were times when it was difficult, once I got past the first week it became much easier. This is also the cheapest method, as you won’t need to buy anything.

Some people need more than motivation to quit, so they might try nicotine gum. Nicotine gum works to provide the body with the substance it is addicted to, but helping by removing the cigarettes from the equation. In the case of “oral fixation,” nicotine gum will also provide some relief. The problem with this method is that it is expensive and your body still remains addicted to nicotine. Still, it is an important first step.

You can also try a nicotine patch, which works like gum but doesn’t require you to chew something that tastes awful. Patches work by continually releasing nicotine to your blood stream throughout the day, so you can put on a patch and forget about it. Again, your body will still be addicted to nicotine, but at least you won’t be smoking. The cost of the patch is similar to the cost of the gum, so you probably won’t save any money. However, by using the patch over the gum, you’ll be keeping your mouth free of nicotine, which will make quitting easier over the long-term.

Some people prefer therapy to quit smoking, and there are many different types available. You could try hypnotherapy, where a doctor or hypnotherapist will put you into a mental state and use hypnosis to trick your brain into not wanting cigarettes. Although some people have reported that this works well for them, it does not seem to be as successful in the long run. You could also try behavioral therapy, in which case you’ll see a psychologist or counselor that will help you quit by teaching you how to replace the behavior and reduce stress. Although this might take some time, it is a very effective method because it forces you to overcome the habit and face it head on, rather than trying to hide behind a gum or patch.

If your goal is to quit smoking, then the most important step you can take is to make the decisions to quit. You can worry about the methods after that. You can try any combination of methods to see what works, but make sure that you stay dedicated and don’t give up. Sure, it can be frustrating, but you’ll be happier and healthier in the long run if you are successful.

Last updated on Apr 13th, 2009 and filed under How-to Guide, Men's Health. Both comments and pings are currently closed.

1 Response for “How to quit smoking”

  1. e-cig says:

    I haven’t had a smoke in for many years. The most awful aspect about giving up is the 1st couple of weeks. Fortunetly for me that part were short lived and things got easier day-to-day thanks to the e-cigarettes. Do not give up. Simply be strong and you will succeed permanently.

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