If you feel the need for inspiration remember NICORETTE® can help quit smoking.
We know how difficult it is to quit smoking so we have put together some tips from other smokers who have successfully quit.
Maybe they will help you too.
Use the left and right arrows to navigate through the Top Tips above or select a category below.
If you feel tempted, think about anything except lighting a cigarette – a nice day out, a meal or a pleasant memory. The less you think about smoking the easier it will be to stay stopped.
Make a list of the reasons you want to stop smoking and put it somewhere you will see it. Keeping a record will help you get through those times when your resolve to stop or cut down weakens.
It is common for smokers to get negative thoughts. Now is the time you’ll need your determination more than ever.
If you’re using NICORETTE® Gum, NICORETTE® Microtab or NICORETTE® Inhalator you’ll find that you would still prefer cigarettes. However, once you stop smoking, you’ll find your sense of smell and taste improve so you’ll start to enjoy your food more. Don’t risk losing it all again with just one cigarette.
Use your willpower and ask yourself, “How much do I really need this cigarette?” Remind yourself of all the reasons you decided to stop smoking in the first place. Do you really want to throw all your hard work away now that you’ve got this far?
There will be moments when you feel like throwing it all in and reaching for a cigarette if you’ve stopped straight away, or smoking more than your limit if you are cutting down. Perhaps a personal crisis such as an argument at home or pressure at work. Your determination is the key to success If you’re using NRT, to help quit smoking, and feel that you’re not getting the most from it, speak to your Pharmacist, who will be able to advise you on how to use your NRT properly and if necessary recommend an alternative. Remember, that you must be determined to quit, if you want your NRT to work.
Remember alcohol and coffee are usually strong triggers for smoking. Try to avoid alcohol if it weakens your willpower and limit tea and coffee to a few cups a day. Drink decaffeinated coffee, water or fruit juice instead.
Don’t be tempted by relaxed surroundings such as holidays or in the evening after work and risk ruining all your hard work with just one cigarette. Remember, the occasional cigarette will only make you crave more.
Whenever you feel the urge to smoke take your mind off it by keeping active. Early evenings are often the most difficult time. You could decide to try a new hobby, decorate or exercise. Remember the craving will only last a couple of minutes, don’t give in!
If you’re in a social situation try carrying a non-alcoholic drink to keep your hands occupied. Chewing ordinary gum or sucking a hard boiled sweet can help you to resist that urge to smoke. Alternatively substitute these dangerous cigarettes with NRT in the form of NICORETTE® Gum or NICORETTE® Inhalator.
Try new ways to relax and deal with stress such as deep breathing, taking regular breaks or light exercise. Try adding a few drops of relaxing lavender oil to your bath or put a few drops on to your pillow before you go to sleep.
Try going for a walk, run or swim (however gentle). Physical activity is not only a great way of dealing with stress but you’ll be getting fitter too.
Cigarette cravings are often mistaken for hunger pangs. If you feel hungrier than usual or worry about putting on weight, avoid snacking on high calorie foods such as chocolate. Instead, keep plenty of fruit and vegetables handy. Remember that your pharmacist can offer some useful advice.
One of the really noticeable things about stopping smoking is you’ll have some extra money. Add it up and you could find it is equivalent to a reasonable pay rise. Use the money you would have normally spent on cigarettes to buy yourself a treat.
Quit smoking help from family and friends are invaluable. Your Doctor or Pharmacist is always available for advice and if you’re ever feeling tempted, don’t forget we’re only a phone call away.
Relapses can happen, so don’t despair. Many ex-smokers usually try several times before being successful. Think of your relapse as a temporary setback, rather than a failure. Use the experience and learn from it so that next time you won’t be tempted again.