1. Get ready. Set a quit date and prepare to reshape your habits. Get rid of cigarettes and smoke triggers in your house and workplace.

2. Get support. Let your friends and family know your plans, and ask for their support. Tell your healthcare provider; inquire about medications or other helpful therapies. Visit the American Cancer Society web page for more resources, including information on the Quit Line: http://www.cancer.org/docroot/subsite/greatamericans/smokeout.asp

3. Get medication and use it correctly. Nicotine gums, patches and other approved therapies double your chances of quitting for good. Pregnant smokers who want to quit should speak to their doctors about non-medical aids, such as counseling and other smoking cessation products safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

4. Learn new skills and behaviors. Change your routine and replace “smoke breaks” with more healthful breaks: regular exercise; a telephone call to a family member or friend; or a cup of green tea or glass of water.

5. Deal with withdrawal
Withdrawal from nicotine includes physical and psychological symptoms which while annoying are not life-threatening. Plan for the rationalizations, and keep your mind in a good place through activity, deep breathing and even a reward system.

We highly suggest you review the American Cancer Society’s Guide to Quitting Smoking, by clicking here.

Tips from Health For Women and the American Cancer Society