How to overcome smoking
Cigarettes contain nicotine, a psychoactive drug that is highly addictive. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nicotine dependency is as difficult to overcome as heroin, cocaine or alcohol addiction. Often, repeated intervention is required before the smoking addiction is conquered.
Instructions
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Overcome the Smoking Habit
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1
Create a plan and write it down. Set a date to cease smoking and remove all tobacco products from your home, work and car. Do not allow others to smoke inside your home or car. Consider any past attempts to quit smoking and methods that might have worked or not worked.
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2
Enlist the help of family and friends. Making people aware of your goal to cease smoking will provide them with an opportunity to help you through the difficult times.
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3
Join a support group or seek individual counseling. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, counseling helps to successfully quit cigarettes.
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4
Purchase nicotine replacement products such as patches, gum or lozenges. If you have a medical condition or are pregnant, consult a doctor first.
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5
Speak with your doctor about possible medical intervention. Prescription medication may be available to help you overcome your smoking habit.
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6
Learn new behaviors to replace existing habits. Drink more water, exercise more often and distract yourself by remaining busy when the urge to smoke strikes.
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Tips & Warnings
Do not become discouraged by a relapse. Refer back to your plan and make any adjustments necessary and try again. Most people try several times before quitting smoking successfully.
Resist the urge to take even one puff of a cigarette while using the nicotine patch, as this could lead to nicotine overdose and serious medical complications. Do not smoke for several hours after removing the patch, as nicotine is still entering your system.
Consult a doctor prior to using nicotine replacement products as they may aggravate some medical conditions.
