Why Do You Smoke? – Investigate yourself

Smokers use tobacco to fill different needs. Studies show that most people smoke for one or more of the following reasons:

1. Smoking keeps me from slowing down and gives me more energy.

2. I like to touch and handle cigarettes; it is the enjoyment of smoking.

3. Smoking is a pleasure and relaxing.

4. Smoking helps me relax when I feel annoyed about something.

5. I crave cigarettes. I’m addicted to smoking.

6. Smoking is fashionable.

Understanding which needs smoking fills for you is important, if you really want to quit. Finding alternative ways to meet these needs can be efforts to quit tobacco.

Quit Smoking Workshop – Steps to quit smoking

   1. Do it now – don't wait forever for the "perfect" day.

   2. Choose the methods that will work best for you. It’s also useful to;

• List your reasons for quitting – your health, family, kids, money saving.
• Write down the things that can replace smoking – healthy activities like exercise, or new hobbies.
• Talk to your friends, family, and colleagues who can give support. Tell them about your plan to quit smoking – so it feels real to you.
• Start making the lifestyle alternatives that will support your plan – leave cigarettes at home or throw it away, remove the ashtrays from your place.
• Consider joining a support group. Some people find it very helpful to talk to others who are also trying to quit – contact your provincial Lung Association to find a support group in your community.

   3. Follow your plan

• It is your quit date. Be firm that you won’t smoke.
• Occasionally review your plan. Knowing how you are going to handle the urge to smoke will help you better cope with cravings.
• Avoid those people and situations where you will be intrigued to smoke.
• Go for a walk instead of a smoke.
• Find hobbies that keep your hands and mind busy.
• Clean your teeth, your clothes, your places of that stale tobacco smell.
• Be positive. You are trying positively to be smoke-free.

   4. Celebrate to your success

• Believe in you and your plan.
• Understand that it takes time to re-learn smoke-free habits
• Remember that quitting is a process, not an event
• Though your recovery begins within hours of your last smoke, it takes at least three weeks to make a new habit. Don't be discouraged if you slip. It's part of the process. You are not failing. Review your plan and ask yourself how you can do it differently next time.
• Reward yourself when successful.