Helping you kick smoking - Your Life - five tips to help individuals quit smoking - Brief Article

USA Today (Society for the Advancement of Education), March, 2004

Breaking a bad habit, especially an addictive one, usually is extremely difficult. Still, it can be done. Here are five tips to help individuals quit smoking from the Iowa Tobacco Research Center, Iowa City.

1. Stay motivated. Remind yourself every day why you are quitting; picture yourself as a nonsmoker; avoid situations that you connect with smoking.

2. Have a plan to fight cravings. Drink plenty of fluids, especially water; find activities to keep you busy (take a walk, clean house, get a hobby); always have something in your mouth (chewing gum, a healthy snack such as vegetables or air-popped popcorn, or sugar-free hard candy).

3. Reduce stress. Exercise; do some deep breathing; talk to a supportive friend or family member.

4. If you slip, do not give up. Give yourself credit for trying; renew your resolution to quit; remember that it may take several attempts to become smoke-free.

5. Call a "quit" hotline or visit appropriate websites. Talk to a trained counselor who can help you develop a plan to quit; get information on the health benefits of stopping and strategies to help you quit; receive follow-up calls for ongoing support.