Cigarette addiction is one of the most common addictions around the world. An estimated 1 billion people worldwide smoke cigarettes; of those 1 billion people, 5 million die each year from nicotine related illnesses. Are you one of the many people fighting to quit this bad habit? Take a moment and ask yourself this simple yet important question: “When I get the urge to smoke, what is it that triggers me to want to light up?” It could be that you smoke as a habit when you’re bored or in a social environment that causes you anxiety. Maybe it’s when you take a break at work and step outside with co-workers. Maybe it’s when you’re winding down at the end of the day. Maybe it’s after you have an intense conversation with someone who stresses you out. It could be part of your routine commute. Regardless of your reason, this habit is anything but a smart choice.
What are the effects of smoking cigarettes?
- Cigarettes increase the risk of heart disease.
- Increases the risk of lung cancer
- Smokers have a higher chance of heart attacks.
- It plays a major role in emphysema.
- Increases the risk of breast cancer
- Weakens sense of taste and smell
- Deterioration in mental health and function (Alzheimer’s disease and dementia)
- Raises the risk of lupus – an autoimmune disease
- Creates unwanted fine lines on your hands, neck, and face
- Cigarettes leave a strong foul odor on your body and clothes.
- They turn your teeth yellow.
- Most men and women find smoking to be unattractive and a deal-breaker
- Once you start smoking, it can be challenging to quit.
- Visible acceleration in aging
- It can make you feel sluggish and unmotivated.
- Maternal smoking increases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome.
- Damages internal tissue and blood vessels in the body
- Men who smoke are more likely to suffer from erectile dysfunction.
- Known to cause blood clots
- Linked to colon cancer
- Increases symptoms of depression
At Passages Addiction Treatment Centers, we understand that addiction of any kind is a challenging battle to overcome. Sometimes we need support, and here at Passages, we are happy to provide you with these 20 helpful tips that will help you overcome your addiction to nicotine and cigarettes.
How to Quit Smoking Cigarettes
- Be willing and ready to quit smoking.
- Quit buying cigarettes
- Get rid of your lighters.
- Create smoke-free zones (your car, office, and outside patio)
- When you have a sudden desire to buy a pack of cigarettes, force yourself to keep driving- do not stop buying cigarettes under any circumstances.
- Daily meditation either in the morning or when you have a craving
- Schedule a few appointments for acupuncture within the first 30 days of quitting
- Choose from a list of herbal supplements.
- Make a list of things to do instead of smoking.
- Avoid being around people who smoke
- Change up your routine (even if those changes are small)
- Practice saying no with total confidence, so you are not pressured into any bad choices.
- Get moving and exercise daily.
- Keep track of the amount of money you’re saving by not buying cigarettes.
- Share the good news with your friends and family.
- Give yourself some credit and reward yourself with a sweet treat or new outfit.
- Get outside and breathe in the fresh air every day, if possible.
- Practice breathing exercises to relieve stress and cleanse your lungs – providing oxygen to your brain and bloodstream
- Create and maintain a healthy diet
- Stay hydrated with plenty of water throughout the day.
What to expect when you quit smoking
Nicotine changes how your brain operates, so it should be no surprise when the withdrawal symptoms kick in, and you feel like a mess. Do not worry. This is temporary. As your body adapts to no longer being fed nicotine, it will adjust and feel remarkably healthier and better-off. Here is what to be looking out for for a while going through the withdrawal phase.
- Mood swings
- Increased irritability
- Change in appetite
- Lack of sleep or insomnia
- Surge of energy
- Trouble focusing
Many Benefits of Not Smoking Cigarettes
There are several benefits to not smoking cigarettes. Here is just a handful to start.
- Experience increased energy
- Breathe more clearly
- Have fresh breath
- Regain your sense of taste and smell
- Improve fertility
- Feel healthier
- No more “Smokers Cough.”
- Feel less stressed
- Improve the quality of performance in the bedroom
- Children and other family members are not affected by heavy toxins in cigarettes.
- Live a longer life
- Smell beautifully again
Call Passages Addiction Treatment Centers today if you or a loved one is battling an addiction to drugs and/or alcohol. Our admissions department is available 24/7 and can be reached directly by calling our toll-free number (888) 397-0112. We look forward to speaking with you soon.
Passages, Where Addiction Ends and Life Begins™
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