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We all know that smoking is no good, but that doesn’t help those of us who struggle to quit, no matter the benefits. Fortunately, there is now more support and help available than ever before, and more options and therapies with higher rates of success.
Why quit smoking?
There are plenty of reasons to quit smoking. It causes more than 100,000 deaths each year, and is responsible for more than 90% of lung cancers, as well as numerous other cancers throughout the body. It can contribute to heart problems and damage to blood vessels and can lead to chronic bronchitis, emphysema and even pneumonia. All of these health conditions are also passed on to those around you who breathe in secondhand smoke, children being especially vulnerable. For soon-to-be mothers, smoking can have serious consequences, including miscarriages, stillbirths and premature births. The good news is that these can all be avoided by giving up.
Nobody wants to have to face these problems, either for yourself or for those around you. We all want to see our children grow up to lead happy and fulfilled lives and enjoy life with them. Cutting all of the negative things out of our lives can help us support them when they need us.
Help is at hand
Even though it might seem hard, even entertaining the idea of quitting is a good start. There are so many therapies available that there is likely to be one that works for you. From nicotine patches, gums and sprays to medication, there is plenty of medical support available. Electronic cigarettes, such as Vapouriz e-cigarettes, and those with e-liquids, have also become more prevalent and are quickly becoming a recognised aid for those giving up smoking; from 2016 there are plans to regulate these in the same way as other nicotine replacement therapies.
There are also less intrusive methods available, such as hypnotherapy, going cold turkey and joining a smoking support group. There are varying reports on the relative successes of each, but there is no disadvantage to a method that works for the individual. If it helps you quit then go for it.
Nobody can tell you to quit smoking. However, if you feel that you need to, whether for yourself or for your children, you don’t need to be worried – it can be done with a bit of time, patience and support. Whatever happens, there’s no harm in trying; you might even surprise yourself.
* This is a collaborative post *
