5 Self-Help Strategies to Stop Smoking for Good

According to the NDSHS (National Drug Strategy Household Survey), it’s estimated that 11.6% of Australian adults smoked in 2019. If you fall into this statistic and are ready to pack in smoking for good, getting out of the habit and saying goodbye to tobacco can be challenging. However, thanks to some simple lifestyle changes, you may no longer have the urge to light up. To help you quit and put you on the right path, here are some useful strategies.

Think Positive

Once nicotine leaves your body, the rest of the fight is purely psychological. This means that changing your mindset and thinking more positively can do wonders in your quest to give up smoking. Even if you’ve tried to quit before and not seen the results you want, you shouldn’t let this put you off. Try and learn from your past mistakes and experience as this can set you up for success when the time comes to stop smoking.

Consider Your Diet

Many people don’t realize the impact their diet has on their journey of giving up smoking. If you love nothing more than a cigarette after dinner, research indicates that certain foods can make cigarettes more appealing. If you’re serious about giving up smoking, eating plenty of fruits and vegetables will not only be a healthier option but they’re known to make cigarettes taste terrible too.

Change What You Drink

As well as food, what you drink can have an impact on your giving up the smoking journey. Mixing alcohol and cigarettes is never a good idea, as it can make the cigarette taste better. If you’re worried about lighting up when having a drink with friends, it may be wise to reduce your alcohol intake for the time being. Whatever you do, make sure you’re drinking plenty of water to keep you hydrated.

Get Support

No one says you must give up smoking on your own. No matter where you live in the country, there are support services available that can give you the motivation to keep going. There are also smoking aids from stores like Pharmacy Online which may be useful in curbing your cravings. Make sure you have a strong support network of family and friends who can help you along the way and reduce the risk of you reaching for a cigarette.

Identify Your Cravings

Regardless of how long you’ve been smoking, you should have an idea of when you crave a cigarette. Whether it’s first thing in the morning, with your coffee, or just before bed, finding activities to take your mind off things can be a huge help at the beginning. Remember, cravings only last for several minutes, so use the time wisely by practicing relaxation techniques, doing a quick workout, or performing household chores.

While it can be difficult to give up smoking, there have been millions of Australians before you who have managed to pack in the habit for good. Combining all the tips above can increase your chances of quitting smoking forever.