Research shows that 70% of smokers want to quit – so you’re not alone.
We know quitting smoking can be difficult. It's also a different experience for every smoker: some people succeed on the first try; others try many times before they quit for good.
The first thing is to realise that quitting smoking is a process and it is important to understand where you fit in the process or ‘cycle’ of change.
Next, you need to plan when and how you’re going to quit. You can find useful hints and tips below.
If you manage to stay off smoking for a few weeks, your chances of success are greatly increased. Below are our tips on surviving the first month.
There are lots of treatments available to help you through the journey. Below you can find information on treatments to help you quit.
We have also developed a series of short podcasts (see below) to help you through the process, covering everything from the reasons you should stop in the first place, to withdrawal symptoms and dealing with cravings.
- It’s good for your health
- Everyone knows you feel better when you give up smoking. But did you know that the health benefits kick in almost immediately and accumulate over time? Here’s a summary of what happens to your body when you quit.
- After 20 minutes: your blood pressure and pulse rate return to normal. Circulation improves in hands and feet.
- After 8 hours: oxygen levels in the blood return to normal and your chance of heart attack starts to fall.
- After 24 hours: poisonous carbon monoxide gas is eliminated from the body. The lungs start to clear out mucous and other debris.
- After 48 hours: nicotine is no longer detectable in the body. Taste and smell improve.
- After 72 hours: breathing becomes easier as the bronchial tubes relax and energy levels increase.
- After 2 weeks: circulation improves, making walking and exercise easier.
- After 3 to 9 months: coughing, shortness of breath and wheezing are reduced dramatically.
- After 5 years: risk of heart attack falls to that of a non-smoker.
- After 10 years: risk of lung cancer falls to about half that of a smoker.
Remember, quitting smoking may well be the single most important thing you can do to improve your health