Kicking the Habit: Ten Options for Smoking Cessation

There are many positive effects of quitting smoking including better breathing, less risk, of heart disease or other diseases linked to smoking, improved circulation, and better self-esteem. Quitting smoking is not easy, but it can be done.

To have the best chance of quitting successfully you need to know what you are up against, what your options are, and where to go for help. Here is a list of 10 ways to help you quit smoking for good:

1. Write Down Why You Want to Quit. Whatever your reasons are for quitting, often if you can see them in front of you as a reminder, it will be easier for you to stay focused and committed to accomplishing your goal.
2. Don't Smoke any Number or Any Kind of Cigarette. If you try to smoke fewer cigarettes a day but do not stop completely, there is a great chance that you will start smoking the same amount again. Also, smoking a "low-tar, low-nicotine" cigarette usually does little to help as well as you will most likely just smoke more of then to satisfy your cravings.
3. Medications. There are medications available that can help you stop smoking and lessen your urge to smoke. Most of these medications will be available by prescription only.
4. Nicotine Replacement Therapy. When you quit smoking, the absence of nicotine can lead to withdrawal symptoms that may cause you to want to start smoking again. Nicotine replacement therapies such as patches, gums, inhalers, nasal sprays, and lozenges can help ease the symptoms of nicotine withdrawal by providing controlled doses of nicotine without the other harmful components of cigarette smoke.
5. Step-by-Step or Self-help Programs. Many community health programs offer written materials, programs, and other services that can assist you in your effort to quit.
6. Hypnosis.
7. Exercise. Exercise offers a great distraction, and can help you to curb your cravings early on, as well as strengthen your determination when you see the health benefits, such as improved breathing and increased stamina, appear.
8. Drink More Water. Water will help ease the nicotine withdrawal symptoms as you go through the process of quitting. Not only will a big glass of water curb your urge to smoke, but it will also help flush residual toxins of your system more quickly.
9. Avoid Temptation and Develop a Non-Smoking Environment for Yourself. Avoid places and situations that you strongly associate with the pleasurable aspects of smoking. Until you are confident of your ability to stay off cigarettes, try to spend as much time possible in places where smoking isn't allowed. If you miss the sensation of having something in your hand, play with something else, like a pencil, and if you miss having something in your mouth, try a toothpick or a straw.
10. Find New Habits. Change your habits to make smoking difficult such as taking up new sports, cooking, or keeping your hands busy doing crafts or other projects. Also maintain the feeling of a clean mouth by brushing your teeth frequently and using mouthwash.

Remember, there is no one right way to quit smoking, different methods will work better for different people, but it is never too late to quit.