It’s said that quitting smoking can add up to 10 years to your life. For many, the thought of quitting tobacco or vaping can seem like a great idea but very hard to do. So, for more than 40 years the American Cancer Society has hosted the Great American Smokeout in November to help you find the support and resources you need to make the commitment to quit smoking for a healthier life.
Whether you want to stop smoking for your health, wallet or other personal reasons, there are some immediate effects you can look forward to, including
- a renewed sense of taste and smell
- better-smelling hair, clothes and breath
- easier breathing after physical activity and
- a decrease in heart rate and blood pressure.
Long-term reasons to quit include
- improved circulation and lung function
- decreased shortness of breath and
- reduced risk for a heart attack, stroke and cancer.
Maybe you agree smoking is bad for you, but you just don’t know how to quit and stay with it. Here are some tips to help you quit and choose to be smoke-free every day:
- Take one day at a time — promise yourself each day that you won’t smoke or chew tobacco that day.
- If you’re craving the feeling of having something in your hand or mouth, try lollipops, gum or a straw.
- The withdrawals can be stressful, so make sure to take care of yourself by getting enough water, food and sleep.
- Steer clear of temptation by avoiding people, places and things you associate with tobacco or vaping.
- Remind yourself of the clean air filling your lungs when you take a deep breath.
- Call a friend, family member, use a mobile app that connects you with others or a telephone quit line when you need extra help or support.
You can do this, and with American Cancer Society’s Great American Smokeout you won’t be doing it alone.
You can also visit the Tobacco Cessation Resources on PASSport for free resources (no health insurance required) and for the Tobacco Cessation Program available for Publix BCBS PPO Plan enrollees.
