530 Nichols Road
Kalamazoo, MI 49006
(269) 381-3890
Why is quitting so hard?
Many ex-smokers say quitting was the hardest thing they ever did. Do you feel hooked? You're probably addicted to nicotine. Nicotine is in all tobacco products. It makes you feel calm and satisfied. At the same time, you feel more alert and focused. The more you smoke, the more nicotine you need to feel good. Soon, you don't feel "normal" without nicotine.
Your body gets more than nicotine when you smoke!
Smoking goes with other things, too. You may light up when you feel a certain way or do certain things. For example:
- Drinking coffee, wine, or beer
- Talking on the phone
- Driving
- Being with other smokers
Just thinking about quitting may make you anxious. But your chances will be better if you get ready first. Quitting works best when you are prepared. Before you quit, START by taking these five important steps:
- S= SET a quit date.
- T= Tell family, friends, and co-workers that you plan to quit.
- A= Anticipate and plan for the challenges you'll face while quitting.
- R= Remove cigarettes and other tobacco products from your home, car, and work.
- T= Talk to your doctor about getting help to quit.
Remember, no matter how hooked you are, you can stop smoking! The KEY is staying strong and sticking with it.
Know your triggers
Certain things trigger, or turn on, your need for a cigarette. they can be moods, feelings, places, or things to do.
Knowing these triggers is very important. It can help you stay away from things that tempt you to smoke. It can prepare you to fight the urge when you are tempted.