Smoking

Smoking kills 6,000 smokers in Wales each year.  Giving up smoking increases your chances of living a longer and healthier life. Here are some tips to help you:

• Understand the problem
  Tobacco contains nicotine, which is a powerful and addictive drug  - recognise that you will need determination to break its hold.
• Get professional help
  You don’t have to rely on willpower alone.  Contact the Smokers Helpline Wales (0800 169 0 169) for information about quitting.  Stop Smoking Wales (0800 085 2219) can provide one-to-one or group support.
• Prepare yourself
  Nicotine withdrawal may make you restless or irritable.  The first few days may be difficult but people usually start to feel better after the third or fourth day.
• Be clear about the benefits
  It's important that you stop smoking because you want to.  Write down why you want to give up and work out how much money it will save you.
• Set a date
  Decide on a date when you will stop smoking.  New year's day is popular, and so is No Smoking Day (the second Wednesday in March).
• Involve family and friends
  Ask your family and friends for support.  If you live with someone else that smokes, it's easier to quit if you do it together.
• Think about nicotine replacement therapy
  It can help if you ease the withdrawal symptoms with nicotine replacement therapy.  Get advice from your GP or community pharmacist.
• Avoid temptation
  In the first few days, change your routine to avoid situations where you would usually smoke.  If you are upset or under pressure, it’s important to fight off the temptation to smoke.
• Treat yourself
  Plan a reward for the end of your first smoke-free day, week or month - perhaps by using the money you have saved.
• Don’t give up giving up
  Don’t worry if this attempt doesn't succeed.  Many former smokers had to try several times before they gave up smoking for good.  Even if you haven't managed it this time, you've probably learnt some things that will put you in a better position next time.  One in four adults in Wales is an ex-smoker, so it can be done!

Related external links

Smokers' Helpline Wales - 0800 169 0 169
Stop Smoking Wales - 0800 085 2219

Smoking Litter Wales
Stop Smoking Wales
Ash Wales
No Smoking Day(English only)
Quit (English only)
Stub