Want to stop smoking?  We can help you!

What can you do;

1)  Ring the NHS Smoking Helpline on 0800 1690169 or go to www.givingupsmoking.co.uk  for more information

2)  Ring the local “help to quit” helpline on 01827 306245 for advice on locally available services

3)  Speak to one of the nurses or GPs of the practice.

Stopping smoking is never easy, however, there is a lot we can do to support you!

1)  We can talk to you about the many good reasons to stop smoking, and the expected benefits, hopefully improving your motivation. (more info)

2)  We can prescribe Nicotine Patches, which help to reduce the craving (more info)

3)  We can prescribe Zyban, a tablet you take daily and also will reduce the craving considerable. Alternatives (Champix being the latest recruit) are available as well.

4)  We can see you regularly to talk through how you are doing and adjust any medication we give you if required

 There are many good reasons to stop smoking

If you are ready to stop make an Action Plan: (more info)
Decide when you’re going to stop
Get rid of your cigarettes and ashtrays the night before
Let friends and family know that your giving up

Break the habit - you may need to change your routine for a while
Think about nicotine replacement therapy

Getting through the first days:
If you need to put something in your mouth, try sugar free sugar gum - keep it healthy and non-fattening
If you need to do something with your hands, find something to fiddle with – a pencil, coin or ring. Anything but a cigarette
Try drinking juice or eating fruit when you feel like having a cigarette
Be sensible with alcohol. A few drinks can make you 'forget' you’ve given up
Congratulate yourself – everyday without a cigarette is an achievement

Take one day at a time…
It’s a cliché but it works. Make your goal to get through today without smoking. It is easier to do this each morning than worry about how you will manage without cigarettes for the rest of your life.

‘What if I’ve had a cigarette?’
Don’t give up giving up! Go back to stage 1 and make tomorrow the day to start again. Think about why you had a cigarette and how you can avoid the same situation in future. If you really feel you’re not ready to stay stopped, then have a break.