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QUIT SMOKING
Quitting smoking is hard, but it is one of the most important things you can do for your health. It is also an extremely expensive habit, and becoming increasingly more so, so money saved when you quit smoking can be put to better use.
Although quitting smoking may seem very difficult, there are certainly things you can do to increase your chances of success.
TIPS FOR QUITTING
Work out your "whys" for quitting. (see suggestions below) The more compelling your reasons to quit, the more motivation and sticking power you will have. Your reasons to quit need to be more powerful than your reasons to keep smoking.
Build yourself a support network of friends and family to whom you explain your quit campaign and ask to be held accountable and for ongoing support when times are tough and your resolve is low. Then use that support! Make sure you have a couple of people who you feel you can call at any time, for a morale boost or kick in the backside if you need it.
Make use of support and services offered by Quitlines and any other local quit smoking groups. These can be especially useful if you don't have much of a personal support network... but also an added safety net even if you do.
Use patches, gum, or prescribed medication to help you deal with the cravings.
Find other substitutes for when the cravings hit, or at times when you might usually reach for a cigarette. This might include something else to occupy your hands, such as knitting, building models, or even something simple like shuffling cards, or squeezing a stress ball. If it is more a sensation in your mouth that gives you trouble, maybe reach for a piece of gum, some fruit, or something else you enjoy. Be cautious of creating another addiction you then need to break, such as too many sugary treats.
Plan ahead... know your triggers... if you know you will be going into a situation which may present temptation work out coping strategies in advance. Perhaps someone who is also going to be there can help keep you on track, or maybe you will have your gum or whatever handy.
If quitting "cold turkey" is too difficult, try cutting back by having one less cigarette per day or every couple of days, or by lengthening the time in between cigarettes deliberately.
REASONS TO QUIT
Your Health!!! Smoking causes tremendous damage to many organs and systems of the body. Once you quit, your body is able to begin the process of healing much of this damage, and you will notice a definite improvement in how you feel and how your body functions.
Your Looks!!! Smoking causes an aging effect on your skin and other outer appearance. You get lines and wrinkles, not to mention staining, which all can be halted and often improved once you quit smoking.
Your Smell!!! This includes both how you smell to other people (and believe me, to non-smokers you stink!!) and how well your sense of smell works.
Your Taste!!! Your sense of taste is much dulled by smoking, so you will rediscover the real tastes of foods once you quit. And of course, anyone kissing you will find it much more pleasant.
Social Acceptance!!! These days smokers often feel like outcasts as their habit forces them to isolate themselves from social occasions, work places etc. Many people look at smoking as a disgusting habit. Don't keep putting yourself in this category. Break free!!
Your Wallet... or Your Dreams!!! Smoking can take a huge amount of money over time... and steal your dreams that could have used that money instead. Don't let smoking take any more.... get out there and live life to the fullest!
CONTACTS FOR QUITTING
Quitline: 131 848 or 137 848
Call this number for the price of a local call anywhere in Australia.
(normal mobile phone charges apply)
Free help, support and a free Quit Pack.
QuitCoach: www.quitcoach.or.au/
Questions and tips to get you going on the road to quitting and keep you there afterwards.
*** DISCLAIMER: The above is provided as general information only, you should always seek professional medical advice before making any such changes to diet and/or lifestyle.
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