Strategies to Quit:
Most persons who try to quit smoking are not able to do so on their first try. But don't give up just because you didn't succeed on your first attempt. More than half of all smokers are eventually able to give up cigarettes.
Cold Turkey:
Many smokers simply choose a day to stop smoking. On that day, they throw away their cigarettes, lighters, and ashtrays. The support of family and friends is particularly important for people who want to stop smoking this way. Let support systems know what you are trying to accomplish, and ask them to help you get through the first few days. Plan activities that will keep you busy, preferably in places where smoking is not allowed.
Gradual Withdrawal:
A variety of maneuvers can help you quit gradually. For example, you can limit the number of cigarettes you allow yourself each day; every day or two, cut down that number by one. Or try smoking only half of each cigarette. Another approach is to set limits on the hours of the day during which you allow yourself to smoke; each day, reduce your "smoking permitted" time by an hour or half hour. If you do try to stop gradually, you should still establish a "quit day" - the day you give up cigarettes altogether.
Brand Switching:
Some smokers find it helpful to switch to a cigarette brand they do not like; that way, they are less tempted to smoke. The disadvantage is that not everyone is able to cut down on the number of cigarettes they smoke. A person might also acquire a taste for a new brand.
Support Groups:
Organized smoking cessation groups can provide you with the help you need to get through this difficult process. After all, everyone in the group is going through the same thing you are! Ask your health care provider for the names of local support groups. Consider contacting the local American Cancer Society or the American Heart Association. You may also consider setting up an individual consultation with a health education specialist at the ECU Student Health Service by calling 328-6794 to learn strategies and develop a plan to quit for good.
Nicotine Replacement Therapy:
Nicotine gum, patches, and nasal sprays allow you to break the 'habit" of smoking first, then gradually reduce the amount of nicotine you give to your body. They diminish the severity of withdrawal symptoms and increase the likelihood that you can quit smoking successfully. Talk to a health care provider before using these products. They may not be safe for some people (such as those who have recently had a heart attack). For more information on nicotine replacement products please call our Pharmacy Department at (252) 328-6793 or visit the Pharmacy Department's Smoking Cessation Product page.
Chantix (Pfizer) / Zyban (Glaxo Smith Kline):
These drugs are not nicotine replacement products. Rather, they work in the brain to help people break their addiction to smoking. Talk to your health care provider about these drugs, as they require a prescription. Call 328-6841 to schedule an appointment at ECU Student Health Service. For more information on nicotine replacement products please call our Pharmacy Department at (252) 328-6793 or visit the Pharmacy Department's Smoking Cessation Product page.
Remember, cigarettes and other tobacco products are addictive. If you find it difficult to quit smoking, it is not because you lack willpower; it is because you are going through withdrawal from a drug (nicotine). If you don't succeed on your first attempt, try again to stop. Each time you try, the odds become higher that you will succeed.
