No Smoking Day: 6 Useful Tips to Stop Smoking

Cigarette smoking is the most common form of consuming tobacco all over the world [1]. Surprisingly, 29% of all adults in India use tobacco in the form of non-smoking products and smoking forms such as bidi, cigarettes, and hookah [2]. You may already know that there is a link between smoking and cardiovascular health. A report by the CDC suggests that smokers are more likely to develop health conditions like cancer, stroke, and heart disease [3]. Around 780 million people want to stop, but only 30% have the tools to help quit smoking [4]. Every year, National No Smoking Day is observed on the second Wednesday of March to reach out to the smokers in India and help them with quit smoking methods.

Are you wondering how to quit smoking to boost immunity? Do you or someone you love need help to stop smoking? It is possible to quit your tobacco addiction or help someone quit smoking by learning about the essential tips to quit smoking. Read on to learn how to get someone to stop smoking.  

How to help someone quit smoking? 

Express your concern genuinely 

Most smokers know the risks of smoking but do not understand its consequences on the physical and emotional well-being of their loved ones. It is said that nicotine can be as addictive as cocaine or heroin. So, do not complain but persuade them with logic. For instance, you can tell them how much they can save by quitting smoking, and how they can invest these savings for something productive. Also make them understand the effect of passive smoking on others including children. 

Understand the withdrawal symptoms 

Remember that smoking is addictive and stopping it is not easy. A person trying to quit smoking may experience withdrawal symptoms. These include anxiety, anger, concentration problems, restlessness, weight gain, and increased appetite. The withdrawal symptoms of cigarettes can be stronger than the craving. Do not overreact and be patient during this difficult phase your loved ones are sure to go through.

Offer nicotine replacement products 

Called the best way to quit smoking by numerous ex-smokers, you can offer loved ones nicotine replacement products. These include patches, gums, inhalers, lozenges, and nasal sprays. However, they have their own pros and cons. They may be costly and will not always be effective. Your loved ones can also take prescribed medications instead of nicotine replacement products. They work by altering brain chemicals.

Distract them with other activities 

Distracting smokers with activities they enjoy can be a great way to get them to quit smoking in spite of cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Play a game, watch a movie together, or take a walk. Do things that keep your loved ones away from the thought of smoking. Learn what they enjoy the most and plan your activities accordingly. If they are alone, encourage them to practice yoga, chew gum, or play a video game. 

Encourage and offer support  

There may be times that your loved ones may relapse before they finally quit smoking. Be patient and encourage them to forget the past and stay motivated. Do not be pushy as they may stop listening to you. Be encouraging. Celebrate small achievements such as not smoking for a week or a month. Remind them of their success and be by their side when they crave or feel withdrawal symptoms. 

Seek external help when required 

Your friend or family member may be having a tough time facing withdrawal symptoms. In such situations, you can encourage them to take up cognitive behavioral therapy sessions. Find a therapist or help them join group therapy. There are also apps available on the smartphone that aids in keeping track and helping quit smoking. 

When is National No Smoking Day 2022? 

This year, National No Smoking will be held on March 9, Wednesday. Observing this day means reaching out to those who are addicted to nicotine and helping them quit smoking. Another objective of this day is to spread awareness about the health risks of active and passive smoking. 

This National No Smoking Day, give your loved ones the encouragement to quit smoking and support them to achieve their resolution. Remember that both smokers and those exposed to passive smoking are at risk of health issues. To know more about how to quit smoking, book an online doctor consultation with the top doctors and specialists on Bajaj Finserv Health. Learn the easy way to quit smoking and take steps to quit smoking at the earliest!