Don’t smoke any cigarettes
Once you decide to quit smoking, don’t smoke any cigarettes at all. Even occasional smoking is harmful to your lungs, blood vessels, and cells. So, once you determine to quit, put all your cigarettes/cigars/smokeless tobacco and smoking accessories out of sight.
Out of sight may help you to keep it out of mind. If you do find your hand reaching for something and remember that it is usually a cigarette, find something else to put in your hand to occupy it, like a pencil or low-calorie snack, like low-fat, low-salt popcorn, sugar-free mints, or sugar-free gum.
Take frequent naps, if possible, to get your mind off smoking.
Write down why you want to quit
Know that it will take commitment and effort to quit smoking
The NIH (National Institutes of Health) describes nicotine as an addictive chemical substance. This causes most people to have some feelings of nicotine withdrawal when they try to quit using nicotine products. This withdrawal can cause irritability and a real desire to use (smoke) again. These symptoms can last a few days to several weeks.
Nicotine replacement products, such as gum and patches, or prescription cessation medications, may be helpful.
Get help if you want it
You can do this
You weren’t born with a cigarette/cigar/chew in your mouth. It is not natural. Other people have been successful at quitting smoking, and you can too.
Quitting smoking is the most important thing you can do to protect your health and that of your family and friends.
Ms. Anna Grace Bizzle is an Academic Advisor for the College of Nursing and Health Professions. She earned her Bachelor’s and Master's degrees in Secondary Education from Mississippi State University. Her favorite part of advising at McNeese is being a resource for students as they get used to the expectations of college and helping students pursue their degrees at such a wonderful school.