Skip to content Skip to main menu Skip to footer
You are here: Home / Your health / Quit smoking
Leaves

Quit smoking - some top tips to help you quit

Attention: open in a new window. PDFPrintE-mail

  1. Write down why you want to stop. This may be simple, but writing it down can actually provide you with the motivation to have a go at stopping.
  2. Make a plan.  With careful preparation and planning, you will find it easier to succeed. The first step is developing a plan of action that will work for you.
  3. Find out where the support is. You are four times more likely to quit with support from the NHS.  Call the Hampshire Quit4life Service on 0845 602 4663 or the national NHS Stop Smoking Helpline on 0800 022 4 332 which is available 7 days a week, 7am to 11pm.
  4. Pick a day to quit and stick to it. It is a good idea to make this is a day where you will be doing lots of different things that will keep you occupied
  5. Try to change your routine at least for a short time until you get used to not smoking. Watch out for triggers like being with other smokers.
  6. Think of distractions when tempted.  Plan ahead so you feel confident. Things like taking a walk, having a glass of fresh orange juice or calling a friend can help alleviate the temptation.
  7. Plan small rewards at the end of day one, week one and so on. These will give you something to look forward to but make sure they do not sabotage your stop smoking plan.
  8. Take it one day at a time as this helps to focus on the present. Try not to worry about how you are going to live your life without cigarettes.
  9. Think positive. There will be times when you feel tired and tempted to give in. Remember why you are stopping, review your reasons and your plan and think of how well you have done up to this point. If you remain determined, the temptation will pass.

Quit smoking
Why quit?
What can I do if I want to quit?