Become a non-smoker: here’s how to do it…
New year, new happiness: quitting smoking is one of the most common New Year’s resolutions. But it is often difficult to stick to it in the long term and remain non-smoking. Many smokers end up relapsing. There is no miracle cure, but there are some proven methods and tips that will help you finally become a non-smoker.
To quit smoking in the long term, you need good motivation, some advice, perseverance and above all a lot of patience. Here you will find all the reasons to become a non-smoker and the best way to approach your project.
Reasons to quit smoking
Many smokers underestimate the damage they cause to their body through regular tobacco use. Smoking significantly increases the risk of cancer or myocardial infarction. General performance declines, and in men, smoking can even lead to impotence.
Smoking not only harms your health, but also your appearance. Regular tobacco consumption mainly affects the skin, but also the hair, teeth and nails. Nail and tooth discolorations (after teeth cleaning) slowly disappear when you stop smoking. The unpleasant smell of cigarettes on clothes and in the apartment is also a good argument for becoming a non-smoker. In addition, you would do good for the environment and protect your wallet.
Become a non-smoker: here’s how to do it
The following method has already allowed many people to achieve success and quit smoking:
- Always have a clear goal in mind and always remember why you want to quit smoking.
- Set a specific time to start. While some people report that they have managed to get rid of their vice gradually, radically stopping tobacco consumption is often easier, according to experts.
- Distract yourself, break your routines and look for an alternative. The best thing is to inform those around you about your project so that your friends, colleagues and family can support you in your approach.
Example: If you have always smoked a cigarette in the morning on your way to the train, look for another occupation for this period in order to establish a new routine. Avoid situations that could encourage you to smoke – which is of course much more difficult if a lot of people around you smoke. But this should not constitute an obstacle to your nicotine withdrawal either.
Didn’t get any results with this method? Then try group therapy. These have a high success rate and some are even subsidized by the health insurance fund.
Nicotine substitutes and other medications
Good intentions are often not enough. So, many smokers have already made countless unsuccessful attempts to finally get rid of their vice. Switching to e-cigarettes or hookah is a possible alternative for many smokers. These replacement options are certainly far from healthy, even if they are a little less harmful. In principle, however, it is recommended to stop smoking completely.
If you can’t do this, nicotine replacements may be a possible option. These include, for example, patches, sprays, special chewing gums and lozenges. Ask your family doctor for advice – most nicotine replacement products are only available with a prescription.
Alternative methods to quit smoking
The range of alternative therapies is vast, but sometimes not very serious. Some providers lure potential customers with half-truths and supposedly high success rates, only to then extract money from them. Acupuncture and hypnosis offers are particularly popular here, but generally do not bring the expected success.
When you want to quit smoking, relapses are completely normal. Affected people often need several attempts to remain non-smoking long-term. And if you can’t do it on your own, you may be able to count on professional support. It’s worth hanging in there – your body will thank you!
