As part of a series of measures aimed at tackling the health effects of smoking and vaping, news laws proposed by the government will make it illegal for anyone currently aged 15 or under to ever buy cigarettes in the UK.
In addition to this, the Tobacco and Vapes Bill will also extend the current indoor smoking ban to some outdoor settings. This will see smoking banned in children’s playgrounds and outside schools and hospitals in England.
Smoking remains the biggest cause of lung cancer, with approximately 70% of cases as a result of smoking.
Quitting smoking is the best way a person can reduce their risk of lung cancer. Here are 5 tips to help you quit…
Switch up your routine
If you have smoked for many years, you probably have a set routine or certain moments of your day where you automatically reach for a cigarette. Changing your routine can help break that smoking cycle.
For example, if you usually have a cigarette first thing in the morning with your coffee, switch things up! Drink juice or water instead, eat your breakfast first, or jump in the shower first.
Stay hydrated
When you’re quitting smoking, it’s really important to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. Smoking depletes your vitamin c levels so orange juice is a good thing to drink.
Treat yourself to a nice new water bottle with the money you’re saving. Having a drink nearby can also help keep your hands occupied.
Remove the temptation
We’re not going to lie… quitting smoking can be hard. You are breaking a deep rooted addiction so take some time to recognise any potential triggers and devise a plan to help avoid them.
This might involve avoid certain situations, or even certain people, in the first few days and weeks. This in itself might be difficult or frustrating – we all hate FOMO – so be sure to remind yourself that this isn’t permanent and you won’t miss out for long.
If you have family or friends who smoke, encourage them to stop with you and support each other.
Remember why
Whatever your reason for quitting, keep that in the front of your mind.
If you’re quitting for your loved ones, save a picture of them as your phone screensaver, or ask them to record a motivational message for you to play in those stressful moments.
Keep track of all the money you are saving and reinforce this positive behaviour by treating yourself to a little something every now and then.
Take note of how you’re feeling. Are you breathing a little easier? Does food taste better? Do your clothes smell nicer? Spotting the health benefits of quitting can be an excellent motivator to stay smoke-free.
And above all remember, you are in control. This is your decision. You’re not giving something up. You are choosing not to do something.
Find the right support for you
Whether you choose to use a stop smoking aid, such as nicotine replacement, or go cold turkey, it’s important you pick the best support and tools for you. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist to see what options are available to you, and also tell your family and friends that you are quitting. They will want to help you.
You can also join our Quit Support forum and chat to others who are quitting or have successfully quit. They will understand more than anyone else what you’re going through and be best placed to offer realistic advice and support.
