Join us on Facebook for day to day help and experiences from other quitters.
Staying smoke free
All forms of tobacco are hazardous. It doesn’t help to change to products that seem less harmful – such as filter or low-tar cigarettes.
The only thing that really helps you avoid the problems of smoking is staying smoke-free. This isn’t always easy, especially if everyone around you is smoking and offering you cigarettes. It may help to have your reasons for not smoking ready for times you feel the pressure, such as “I just don’t like it” or “I want to stay in shape for football” (or Gaelic, soccer, rugby, basketball or other sport) or “I’m saving the cash to get a car” (or bike, or holiday).
If you do smoke and want to give up, there’s more information and support out there than ever. Different approaches work for different people – for some, going cold turkey is best, whereas others find that a slower approach is the way to go. Some people find that it helps to talk to an expert about giving up smoking. You can ring the National Smokers’ Quitline on Callsave 1850 201 203 to talk to an advisor. They can also give you details of give up smoking service in your area.
The internet also offers a number of good resources, you can make your own quit plan on this site. SpunOut.ie provides a wide range of health information on a number of topics including smoking.
When you give up, it can help to know that the first few days are the hardest, and it’s normal to have a few relapses before you manage to stop for good.
Staying smoke-free will give you a whole lot more of everything – more energy, better performance, better looks, more money in your pocket and, in the long run, more life to live!
Useful websites:
© Health Service ExecutiveTerms & Conditions