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How To Quit Smoking. You say you want to feel better, live longer, and even have a little
extra cash on hand? Easy. Just quit smoking. You will need Paper and pen Gum and lollipops
Willpower Calendar Nicotine gum Prescription drug and hypnosis. Step 1. Ready yourself.
Make a particular day your quit day. Don’t deviate from this plan. Psych yourself up
by making a list of all the reasons to quit—you’ll be healthier, develop fewer wrinkles, have
nicer breath, save money, and you won’t be subjecting people to second-hand smoke.
Step 2. Write down your smoking triggers. When you drink? After dinner? With coffee?
Knowing what prompts you to smoke can help you quit. Step 3. List all the health risks
associated with smoking—such as stroke, heart disease, several types of cancer, ulcers,
diabetes, eye diseases, and osteoporosis. Remind yourself that there are more than 4,000
chemicals in cigarettes, some of which are used in insect and rat poisons! Step 4. Tell
your friends and family about your decision. They can encourage you, plus you’re less
likely to back out if others know your goal. Step 5. Call your state’s stop smoking line
for free advice, nicotine substitutes, and a plan. Step 6. Buy lots of gum or lollipops.
When you have a craving for a cigarette, suck on a lollipop or chew some gum. Step 7. Keep
busy so your mind doesn’t start craving a cigarette. Begin a project or new hobby.
If you experience severe withdrawal—with symptoms such as intense cravings, tension,
irritability, headaches, drowsiness, or trouble sleeping—consult your physician about the
possibility of using a nicotine patch. Step 8. Keep going. Mark your achievements on a
calendar: one day smoke-free, one week, one month, and so on. Use your calendar as motivation.
Step 9. Be prepared for difficult situations or even relapses. If you relapse, start the
process over. Step 10. If willpower isn’t working for you, ask your doctor if you might
be a good candidate for a prescription drug that may help you quit – like Zyban, also
known as the antidepressant Wellbutrin. Some people swear by hypnosis; that’s how Courteney
***, Billy Joel, and Drew Barrymore kicked the habit. Step 11. Enjoy a healthier, happier
and better-smelling life. Did you know More than 400,000 deaths in the U.S. each year
are caused by smoking-related illnesses.