Ways to quit smoking
Even though smoking is addictive, quitting is
possible with the proper support and determination. Some people quit
by gradually reducing the number of cigarettes they smoke each day,
while others prefer to stop all at once. Many smokers use nicotine
replacement products like patches, gums, or lozenges to help manage
cravings. For example, someone who usually smokes after meals might
replace that cigarette with a piece of gum to break the habit (Ward
et al., 2024).
Support groups and counselling can also help.
Talking to others trying to quit can make the process easier and
more motivating. Some people also turn to new hobbies, like
exercising or meditation, to distract themselves from cravings. For
instance, a person who used to smoke when stressed might start going
for a short walk instead. The key is to find a healthy alternative
that works best for the individual (Wakefield et al., 2006).
