Tips to Quit Smoking
What if I smoke after quitting? It’ s hard to stay a nonsmoker once you’ ve had a cigarette, so do everything you can to avoid that one. The urge to smoke will pass. The first two to five minutes will be the toughest. If you do smoke after quitting:
This doesn’ t mean you’ re a smoker again. Get back on track immediately. Don’ t punish yourself. Remind yourself you’ re a nonsmoker regardless. Consider why you smoked, and decide what to do differently next time. Sign a contract to stay a nonsmoker.
What are the immediate benefits of quitting? Your senses of smell and taste will return. Your smoker’ s cough will subside. Your digestive system will function normally. You’ ll breathe much easier. You’ ll be free from the mess, smell and burns in clothing.
How can I cope with the urge to smoke? Write down the reasons why you quit and revisit the list often.
Prepare for times when you’ ll get the urge. If you smoke when drinking, for example, cut down on alcohol. Change your habits. Instead of having a cigarette after dinner, brush your teeth or walk the dog. Surround yourself with people who don’ t smoke. Find a cessation buddy. Reward yourself each time you get through a day or week without smoking. Talk to your healthcare provider about counseling and support groups.
What are some ways I can relax in lieu of cigarettes?
Exercise. Go shopping with the money you save from cigarettes. Go to a public place where smoking is not allowed. Read a book or magazine. Listen to a relaxation tape or your favorite music. Try deep breathing. Take a long, deep breath, count to 10 and release it. Go for a walk. Call a friend.
For more information about our Quit Tobacco Program, call 775-982-2781 or visit renown. org / QuitTobacco.
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