Quit Smoking Tips: Do I Need Nicotine Replacements?

Naomie Webb
When it comes to quitting smoking for good not everyone will benefit from nicotine replacements.

The people who benefit most from nicotine replacements are those who want to quit smoking but who have a high level of nicotine dependence. People who have been smoking for many years and have a high level of nicotine dependence will likely to suffer withdrawal symptoms when they stop smoking.

One of the best ways to find out whether you have a strong dependence on nicotine is to think about how you are in the morning. What is the first thing you do? If you reach for a cigarette before doing anything else then chances are good you are nicotine dependent. If on the other hand you don't get around to smoking until later on in the morning or in the afternoon then chances are good you are not nicotine dependent.

Once you have decided to quit smoking whether you're nicotine dependent or not it is important to rid your environment of anything related to smoking. Get rid of all your ashtrays and avoid walking past the stores where you would routinely buy your smokes.

Also ask for support. If you are nicotine dependent seek the advice of your doctor re: nicotine replacements and the process of tapering off. If your smoking became more of a habit than a dependency then let your friends and colleagues know about your plans to quit and ask for their support to help you break your negative patterns. Knowing that others are aware you are trying to quit may also boost your willpower.

Finding a 'quit coach' is also an excellent idea. The right quit smoking coach will remind you that they are concerned about your overall health and will encourage your efforts along the way.

A good coach will also never nag or put you down. They will help you locate resources like books and websites and support all your efforts to quit. A good coach also understands that your journey to quit is a difficult one and makes the commitment to be with you from start to finish. And if you do fall off the wagon, your coach will be there to encourage you and your efforts to quit at your own pace. Do you know such a person who would be willing to act as your 'quit' coach?

You can quit smoking for good by understanding that the process will take a lot of willpower and discipline on your part. To make things easier reward yourself in the day and weeks following 'quit day' by doing some things you really enjoy. Pride yourself on all the hard work and effort you're putting in to quit smoking for good. You deserve it!

Published by Naomie Webb

I'm a busy mother of two and freelance writer who loves to cook, travel and spend quality time with her kids.  View profile

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