National No Smoking Day

Thinking about stopping to smoke your cigarettes?  Today could be the day to decide to get serious about it.

As of 2022, there are approximately 28 million smokers in the United States or about 11.6% of the population.  The good news is that this number represents a drastic decline in users over the decades.

If you need any convincing, a sobering statistic is that about one half of the smokers die from smoking making it a deadly addiction.

The addictive quality comes from the changes it causes to your brain.  Your brain actually yearns for the nicotine in the cigarette making it difficult to stop.  

There are some ways to help yourself quit if you make the decision to try.  These are courtesy of WebMD.com. 

• First is to find your motivation on why you want to stop.  It could be family or fear of getting cancer.  This is a big first step.

• It’s hard to go “cold turkey”.  Work with your doctor for medical aids and family and friends for support.  You might be able to get some nicotine replacement therapy.

• Find new ways to relax instead of using nicotine.  You can exercise, meet with friends, participate in an activity or hobby.  Anything to keep you busy.

• Finally, avoid triggers like alcohol or coffee.  Choose something different like chewing gum or another type of drink.

Private Home Health Care understands how strong an addiction to nicotine can be.  We also know people who have conquered it and stopped so it is possible.  Good luck!