Top 4 Methods to Help One Quit Smoking
It’s no news that tobacco use is harmful to our body, and that quitting this habit is no joy ride. In 2017, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated of 34.3 million adults were smokers in the country. The addiction is such that it becomes an involuntary habit and part of the lifestyle. While the health risks of smoking are well known, quitting this habit needs more determination and will than anticipated. Herein, we look at some ways to follow through the decision to quit this addiction. Nicotine replacement therapy The nicotine in tobacco is what keeps the addiction alive in consumers. It has the tendency to make one physically dependent; hence, a cut-off from it altogether can lead to serious withdrawal symptoms. Once you start on your journey to quit smoking, nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) acts as your crutch to keep you steady on this road. NRT gives you nicotine in the form of gum, patches, sprays, inhalers or lozenges that can take care of the body’s physical craving for it. One can start using NRT as soon as they quit smoking. Apart from this, there is a need to have some other psychological therapies that will help one fight the urge to pick up a cigarette. Joining a support group Consider behavioral therapy that will help one stay on this journey. Smoking tobacco becomes not just a physical dependence but an emotional one too, and it’s important that one addresses this process in a holistic manner. Geting professional help from a counselor, joining a support group, speaking to family and friends, and reading some self-help books are few methods one try to kick the habit. It is often advised that a mix of NRT and behavioral therapy can be the route of quitting smoking. Non-nicotine pills Apart from NRTs, there are some pills which do not have nicotine in them but help in curbing the nicotine craving in the body.