Tips and Suggestions for Overcoming Cigarette Addiction

Quitting smoking is a daunting task that many people face every day. There are many ways to go about it, from going cold-turkey to getting medical help, and figuring out how to quit smoking in a way that guarantees success is an individual process. However, before starting any program, there are several factors that should be considered. Here are some common methods for quitting smoking, along with the pros and cons of each approach.

How to Quit Smoking: Cold Turkey
First of all, stopping completely without weaning your body off of its nicotine dependency, known as going cold-turkey, is generally not as effective as other methods. It places stress on your body which manifests as withdrawal symptoms ranging from crankiness to lethargy, headaches, and various other symptoms. In addition, people who quit cold turkey often start back again with just a few days. While many people have found success in this method, it is not the recommended approach. On the other hand, it does have the advantage of being completely free of charge.

How to Quit Smoking: Gradual Method
One effective way to quit smoking is to gradually reduce the amount of nicotine in your system. First, count exactly how many cigarettes you smoke in a day, then reduce that number by one or two cigarettes at a time. If done slowly, over the course of a couple of months, the shock to your system will be greatly reduced, and you may find it easier to resist starting back again. The drawback to this approach is that it is a slow process, and it takes strength and perseverance to resist giving up and going back to your old ways.

How to Quit Smoking: The Patch
For those who do not want to face nicotine withdrawal alone, there are many options available from your pharmacists. Nicotine patches help reduce craving by slowly releasing nicotine into the body. Using the patch in combination with cold-turkey cigarette withdrawal has helped millions of people quit smoking. As with the gradual method, however, this method takes time and perseverance. Nicotine patches come in several different strengths, and you must gradually move down the levels to reduce the dependency your body has on nicotine. It is important to note, however, that smoking while wearing a nicotine patch is very dangerous. Consult with your doctor and read all warning labels before starting a program with the patch.

How to Quit Smoking: Nicotine Gum
Nicotine gum can help reduce cravings as well. Similar to the patch, nicotine gum releases nicotine into the body without the harmful chemicals found in cigarettes. However, nicotine gum is best used as a supplement to whichever method you choose. It can assist in gradual cigarette reduction as well as going cold turkey.

Perhaps the most important thing to keep in mind while quitting smoking is that it is a process that takes time. As you work towards your goal, be sure to make note of your progress. Keep a journal or a chart that shows how well you're doing. A visual representation of your progress might just be the extra incentive to keep you on track. In addition, always remember that one misstep doesn't erase the progress you've made. If you do give in to a craving and have a cigarette, take a moment to reflect on your lapse, then get right back on track. Don't obsess over your mistakes, and always keep your eye on the end of your journey.

With these tips and support from friends and family, you can be on your way to a healthier lifestyle, adding years to your life and money to your wallet. The first step is making the choice. We all know that cigarettes are dangerous and deadly. What are you waiting for?