How to Quit Smoking - Slideshow

It's time to quit!

Tired of people asking you to stop smoking around them?

Don't want to be ordered around by public smoking bans? Think it's time for some butt-kicking? Your decision is right on! And we're going to guide you through your quitting process.

Smoking cessation

Now that you've decided to stop smoking, once and for all, here are some ways by which you can put your plan into action.

Quitting smoking is not easy - but millions of people succeed at it every year. So can you! Self-belief and a lot of willpower will help you through it, from the moment you stub out the last cigarette, survive the initial urges and subsequent temptations in the future.

Go Cold Turkey

Stats inform us that 80-90% of those who succeed at quitting, and stick to that decision, are those who go the 'cold turkey' way.

When you wake up one morning - make a firm resolution that you won't ever pick up a ciggie again. There are no external factors and substitutes that make the process easier. It's a bit of a struggle but the likelihood of success is much higher.

Slash down

Another option is a gradual cut down of the number or change in the kind of cigarettes you use.

Before deciding to stop altogether, cut down on your daily number of packs or switch to a brand you don't particularly like. This way, nicotine withdrawal symptoms won't be as severe.

Nicotine Replacement

If cravings become unbearable, pharmacologists advise the use of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT).

Nicotine delivery devices give your body the nicotine rush it needs without the risks involved with smoking. These include electronic cigarettes, nicotine patches, chewable nicotine gum, nicotine lozenges and sprays etc. But stats reveal that most users of NRT slip into relapse very easily. In the long run, it's better if you get a clean break from cigarettes and nicotine.

Help yourself

Read up on the dangers of tobacco and smoking. Every cigarette you smoke cuts your life short.

Figure out the reason behind your addiction to 'root' it out the problem eg. if stress at work made you pick up the habit, try to make things lighter when at the office. Work around your weakness. Use oral substitutes like cinnamon sticks, mint, chewing gum etc for a while initially. It gets over the urge in your mouth.

Don't cave in!

Don't resort to chewed tobacco. Not only are you spoiling your chances of quitting, it hikes your risk of oral cancer.

All ash-trays head to the garbage bin. Stay away from alcohol and caffeine for the first few weeks. Revamp your diet to include more health foods. Think of the money saved from not splurging on cigarettes. Use it now for some other fun purpose. Try hitting a gym, or some other safe mode of distraction, to keep your mind off the quitting process.

Involve others too!

Talk about your resolution to stop smoking.

Get your friends and family to create smoke-free atmospheres for you, to help you through the tough first weeks. Blog about your quitting experience - it will keep your commitment levels up. Join a 'quit nicotine' support group in your locality, or even online. Congrats on the decision, and good luck!