Why stop?
Smoking is one of the biggest threats to health in the UK. It kills thousands of people every year, and makes thousands more people ill. Smokers suffer more coughs and throat problems, and get more heart disease, bronchitis, cancers, circulation problems, stomach ulcers… the list goes on and on.
The children of smokers suffer more meningitis, asthma, colds and throat infections. Most smokers have thought about quitting. Stopping smoking not only saves you money but will save your health, both now and in the future.
Planning to stop
The good news is that every day hundreds of people stop smoking and you can do it too. It takes determination and perseverance, but it’s well worth the effort. Stopping is easier when you’ve put some planning into it:
- Set a date to stop
- Tell your friends and family that you’re going to stop
- Ask for some support and encouragement
- Think about ways you’re going to cope with the difficult moments when you’re tempted to have a cigarette
Research shows that people who make these plans are much more likely to succeed in coming off – and staying off – cigarettes.
Available services to support you
Local
Some pharmacies may offer help to stop smoking. Ask at your local pharmacy if they provide this service. All pharmacies will sell “nicotine replacement therapy” products that may help you to quit, e.g. gum, patches.
Online
The NHS Smokefree website offers further information, advice and personal email support for people thinking about giving up.
Phone
Call the NHS Smoking Helpline on 0300 123 1044