Quit Smoking Tips and Medications

It's not just the physical addiction to the nicotine that makes it seem nearly impossible to quit smoking.

There's also a psychological need to have a smoke at certain times of the day.

For example, many smokers feel compelled to light up after a meal, while chatting on the phone, during rush hour traffic, or after completing a vigorous work-out. Their mind becomes accustomed to linking a specific activity or task to smoking. Even a certain time of day can bring on the urge.

While they may be able to cut back at other times of the day, they just can't seem to quit smoking when it comes to that particular time or task.

By recognizing what activities trigger your smoking habit, you can learn to better deal with the problem and increase your chances of stopping smoking altogether. If you view certain tasks as unpleasant or stressful, it's very possible your smoking serves as a relaxation technique for dealing with those situations.

Make a Commitment to Quit Smoking

In order to stop smoking, the first and most important step is to make a personal commitment to end your bad habit.

Although this may seem obvious, many smokers truly do not wish to quit smoking. While their spouse, children, or boss may constantly nag them to quit, stopping smoking is not one of their own top priorities. They may attempt to quit smoking on several occasions, but each attempt is usually short lived.

In Order to Quit Smoking, Examine Your Habits

Once you've made an honest commitment to stop smoking, next you need to review your personal situation.

Start by calculating the number of cigarettes you smoke per day. Do you smoke more during the week than on the weekend? If so, make a note of that and all your other smoking routines.

Create a Stop Smoking Checklist

Before making an attempt to quit smoking, you may wish to keep a record of your smoking for one week beforehand.

List each time of day you have a cigarette and tally your numbers at the end of each day. Look for certain patterns in your smoking. Do you smoke twice as much during the evening hours? Are you more likely to light up at social events than when at home alone?

Partner Up With a Friend to Quit Smoking

Some folks may be able to quit smoking cold turkey but they are in the minority. Pair up with a friend who is also trying to kick the habit or seek the encouragement of a former smoker.

While your spouse may offer kind words of support, it's very difficult for a non-smoker to grasp the willpower and strength needed to successfully quit smoking.