9 Effective Ways to Quit Smoking
For smokers, especially heavy smokers, quitting smoking is not easy. However, there are several ways to quit smoking that can be done to get rid of this bad habit. That way, the body can be healthy again and the risk of various diseases will decrease.
Quitting smoking is a challenge for smokers. Because, some of the ingredients in cigarettes can cause addictive effects so that it can trigger the emergence of nicotine withdrawal symptoms when someone tries to quit smoking.
However, it does not mean that you cannot quit smoking. With patience and strong determination, you can be free from the shackles of cigarettes and the dangers that come with them.
Various Ways to Quit Smoking
If you are an active smoker and intend to stop this bad habit, there are several ways to stop smoking that you can do, namely:
- Manage stress
Stress can be one of the reasons someone chooses to smoke because the nicotine content in it can provide a relaxing effect quickly. However, several studies have shown that the habit of smoking can actually make someone more prone to stress.
To relieve stress , change your smoking habits slowly by doing some activities you enjoy, such as exercising, getting massage therapy , or meditation . Also, avoid situations that can cause stress as much as possible.
- Avoid triggers for smoking habits
When you are trying to quit smoking, try as much as possible to avoid factors or habits that can make you smoke again, such as drinking coffee or alcohol , or hanging out with other smokers.
If you are used to smoking after eating, you can find other ways to replace it, for example by chewing gum or brushing your teeth.
- Eat healthy foods
Some active smokers often feel less appetite to eat. This is because nicotine in cigarettes can reduce the sensitivity of the sense of taste and smell.
Research shows that healthy foods , such as vegetables and fruits, can reduce the desire to smoke again. Not only that, healthy foods can also meet the body’s nutritional needs while restoring a reduced appetite due to smoking.
- Exercise regularly
Not only does it make your body healthier and fitter, exercise can also reduce nicotine addiction. When the urge to smoke comes, you can divert this urge by doing exercise, such as walking , swimming, or cycling.
- Clean the house regularly
Cleanliness of the house can also be one of the factors that can support you in quitting smoking. You can wash clothes, sheets, carpets, or curtains that contain the smell of cigarettes.
You can also use air fresheners to remove the smell of cigarette smoke and distract your mind from things that might remind you of cigarettes, including the smell.
- Involve family and closest friends
Tell your family and close relatives that you are in the process of quitting smoking. Thus, they can help and provide support so that you always remember the goal of quitting smoking that you want to achieve.
- Try nicotine replacementtherapy
Nicotine replacement therapy generally aims to overcome frustration and relieve withdrawal symptoms that are often felt when trying to quit smoking. There are various media for cigarette replacement therapy, such as gum, lozenges, and nicotine patches.
Even though it is considered safe and can reduce addiction to cigarettes, you are still advised to consult a doctor first before doing NRT.
- Undergo behavioral therapy
Counseling with a psychologist or counselor can help you identify the triggers for your smoking habit and find a smoking cessation strategy that suits your condition.
To maximize its success, behavioral therapy can be combined with nicotine replacement therapy and medication given by a doctor.
- Try hypnotherapy
Ways to quit smoking can also be alternative therapy in the form of hypnotherapy . The effectiveness of hypnotherapy to stop smoking is not yet known for sure. However, some people claim to have felt the benefits.
Some medications, such as bupropion and varenicline , can also help you quit smoking. However, these medications should only be taken as directed and under the supervision of a doctor.
Quitting smoking is not an easy thing to do. Not a few people fail to do it. However, your commitment as an effort to quit smoking will be very helpful in getting rid of the habit.
When you find it difficult to stop smoking, try to remember the reasons why you want to stop smoking, for example so that your body is free from various diseases or your family can avoid the dangers of becoming passive smokers .
However, if you still find it difficult to quit smoking even though you have tried various ways to quit smoking above, do not hesitate to consult a doctor . That way, the doctor can suggest effective ways to quit smoking that are appropriate for your condition.
