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Tips for quitting smoking in the New Year

‘Tis the time of year when people think about quitting smoking. Many people make a pledge to make healthy lifestyle choices in the New Year and for many this includes being smoke free. To help you with your quit journey we have included some tips:

  • Decide on a quit date: Pick a quit date that works for you. This should be a realistic date. Make sure you have time to make your quit plan. Mark your quit date on your calendar.
  • Decide on a quit plan: There are many proven ways to quit smoking. To boost your chances of quitting, choose more than one method. Pick what seems right for you. Your quit plan could include using nicotine replacement therapies (gums, patches, inhalers and lozenges), talking to your doctor about quit-smoking medications, and finding a smoking cessation counselor. There are free quitlines across Canada - find out about the one in your area.
  • Ask for support from your family and friends. The holidays often bring family and friends together. It is an excellent time of year to reach out and ask for some support. Let someone know of your plan and tell them you can really use their encouragement.
  • Avoid your triggers. Let’s face it; the holiday season is filled with many triggers, including coffee, tea, alcohol and social activities. Planning ahead will help you deal with many of these triggers. Try to avoid alcoholic beverages over the holidays, alcoholic beverages tend to lower you inhibition, have tasty non-alcoholic drinks instead.
  • Do whatever you can to cope with cravings. Think beyond them. Work through each craving by using the 4Ds: Drink water, Deep Breaths, Delay, Do Something Different. Remember that each craving will pass and you will be stronger after each one.
  • If you slip up, don’t give up. Try quitting again. Quitting smoking gets easier with practice. Every time you try to quit, you boost your chances of quitting for good. Most people who’ve quit smoking forever had to try 5 or 6 times before they could quit for good. This is normal.

Remember to stay positive, quitting smoking is challenging. You should remind yourself of your reasons for quitting and be proud of all of your accomplishments along your quit journey!

We wish you a safe and happy holiday and better breathing in the New Year!