Enjoy a smoke-free New Year Many smokers will resolve to quit this New Year's, but staying off cigarettes is the hard part. Nicotine, a drug found naturally in tobacco, is as addictive as heroin and cocaine. According to Ms. Niggel, more people stop smoking successfully if they prepare to quit by setting a personal smoking cessation date. Each year millions of smokers decide to quit smoking as their New Year's resolution. Mark the date on your calendar Stock up on sugarless gum, carrot sticks, and hard candy to use as temporary oral substitutes.
Water is also an excellent oral substitute.
Decide on a plan. This could be a group class, family member, or a friend who has successfully quit and is willing to help you. Smoking not only affects your health, but also increases risk factors for your loved ones who are exposed to second-hand smoke. They are designed to help smokers recognize and cope with the physical and psychological challenges that are involved with quitting. The Stop Smoking Program at UPMC Passavant is a comprehensive program that features free orientation, weekly small group meetings with a trained facilitator, nutritional guidance for weight control by a registered dietitian, free weekly support group meetings, nicotine replacement therapy supervised by your personal physician, a quitter's handbook, and a supportive, professional and caring atmosphere to encourage smoking cessation.