How to quit

There's more than one way to quit smoking. The first step is to decide that you can--and will--go through with it. Quitting smoking 'cold turkey' could be what you decide is the best way for you, or you may prefer to stop gradually. Some people benefit from a support group of people also trying to quit, while others prefer to go it alone, or have their family or friends be their support. You might want to try a nicotine-replacement therapy, such as a nicotine patch or gum, as a way of weaning yourself off of that physically-addictive chemical and ease withdrawal symptoms. Or a combination of physical and psychological treatments might work better for you. These can include hypnosis, acupuncture,stress management, and counseling. There are also tapes and videocassette programs available. Your local American Cancer Society, Heart Association, and Lung Association have stop-smoking programs, support groups, and brochures, and they may also be able to give you information about other resources available in your community. There are numerous techniques and strategies to help you quit, even if you aren't successful on the first try. For more information about how to quit smoking, contact a healthcare professional.