Tips to make this the year you quit smoking for good

StatePoint – Is “quitting smoking” on the top of your list of goals for the year? Was it last year, too? Here are some insights from those in the know into kicking this habit to the curb for good.

“They say old habits are hard to break, and when it comes to my dad’s addictive smoking habits, I couldn’t agree more,” says Linh Nguyen, the Houston style, fitness and mom blogger behind A Beautiful RAWR. “He knows smoking is detrimental to his health, but the thought of not having it be part of his daily routine has been a challenging, intimidating, and in some ways, scary idea for him to grasp.”

Nguyen’s family has resolved to help her father make this the year he quits smoking for good. For those 18 and older, consider these tips and insights she is sharing into the process.

Identify your motivations: Quitting a smoking habit can be very difficult, but knowing why you want to quit can help you stick with it when things get tough.

“I think the biggest motivator for my dad to quit this year is our growing family. His grandkids are his world and I know he wants to be around to watch them grow up. To do that, we’re all making better choices for a healthier, longer life,” says Nguyen.

Get Help: Quitting is often associated with challenging physical symptoms. However, products that deliver controlled, therapeutic doses of nicotine can relieve cravings and help with difficult physical withdrawal symptoms.

“One of the biggest ways I’m supporting my dad is stocking him up on effective, pharmacist-recommended smoking cessation products from Walgreens, which are much more affordable compared to similar products,” says Nguyen.

Before getting started, anticipate which products might work best for your needs. While patches are a great choice for many people who like to “set it and forget it,” those who prefer to keep their mouth busy might prefer using a product like Walgreens Nicotine Gum. Available in 2 mg or 4 mg strengths, each piece lasts about 30 minutes and you can chew up to 20 pieces per day. Similarly, Walgreens Lozenges also come in 2 mg and 4 mg strengths and are a good choice for people who may avoid gum due to TMJ problems.

Build a plan: Quitting is highly personal. For a greater chance of success, look for resources that help you build a personalized plan. For example, the Walgreens team offers free live support and healthcare clinics in your area, as well as expert advice, treatment and tools available at walgreens.com.

“If they can help my dad quit after 50-plus years, they can definitely help you or a loved one,” says Nguyen.

For additional support and information, visit cancer.org or call the American Cancer Society 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 1-800-227-2345.

When you quit smoking, you can lower your risk for a number of health problems including lung disease, lung cancer and heart disease. If you are attempting to go smoke-free, be sure you have all the support and tools you need.