Good resolutions: how to quit smoking?

As we know, January 1st is conducive to good resolutions and the smokers among you might want to get rid of cigarettes. This is not an easy task, so here are some tips to support you in this ordeal, which is more difficult than it seems.

1. Choose a quit date

Decide on a date as soon as possible to stay focused and motivated on your goal. It doesn’t have to be January 1st, but don’t drag out too much either. It can be a date that makes sense to you, for example a birthday or… January 1st!

2. Tell everyone

Announcing that you are quitting smoking to your family, friends and colleagues is a good way to benefit from their support, and could even inspire some smokers around you. Combining your efforts with those of a “fellow stopper” can also make you both witnesses to each other and allow you to support each other.

3. Prepare for difficulties

Quitting smoking is not easy. It should not be forgotten that challenges will arise, especially during the most critical period of the first few weeks. This is the hardest phase, because of the nicotine withdrawal symptoms.

4. Get rid of any tobacco products

Without tobacco-related products in your environment, you’ll be less tempted to relapse. Make your home a smoke-free zone, avoid smoking areas, and ask friends and family not to smoke near you.

5. Try Cognitive Behavioral Therapies

This type of therapy can help you cope with the withdrawal symptoms that you will experience. Getting enough sleep, eating properly, exercising and drinking plenty of water are all factors that can relieve these symptoms (headaches, cough, weight gain and restlessness). Positive thinking, yoga, meditation can also be helpful in combating mood swings, insomnia and difficulty concentrating.

6. Don’t neglect medication

Nicotine replacement therapies (NRT), such as gummies and patches, are available without a prescription, and can keep you balanced for the first few weeks. As for nicotine-free treatments, such as bupropion (marketed in France under the Zyban brand), and varenicline (Champix), they are available on prescription. It is therefore imperative to consult a doctor, who will inform you of the doses to be respected and the potential side effects.

7. Work on Associated Habits

Smoking a cigarette is closely associated with other daily activities: after eating, seeing friends, having a drink, etc. Try to break these habits in order to stay focused on your goal.

8. Don’t get discouraged if you dive back in

Don’t worry if you can’t quit on the first try. It may take several tries to kick the addiction, but each time you try, you’re taking a step in the right direction. Don’t let having a crush erode your confidence; instead, learn from your mistakes to make your next attempt a success.

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