No Smoking Day 2018

It is just over a week until No Smoking Day on Wednesday 14 March, with thousands of smokers across Northern Ireland today being urged to stub out their cigarettes and become ‘Proud Quitters’.

“Studies have found that smokers can significantly increase their chances of quitting with help from a stop smoking services than if they go it alone. We are encouraging smokers to visit their GP, pharmacist or local stop smoking advisor to avail of free, professional information and advice on quitting smoking. Getting prepared for your quit attempt is the first step on the journey towards a healthier and happier smoke-free life, so we are urging smokers to use this year’s No Smoking Day as the perfect opportunity to join the thousands of others who have become a ‘proud quitter’.”

Five top tips to help you quit smoking:

Make a date to give up – and stick to it! This year’s No Smoking Day is Wednesday 14 March.

• Make a plan. Think about what could help you stop smoking, such as using a nicotine-replacement product, and have it ready before the date you plan to stop.
• Get support from your local stop smoking service. Also, let your family and friends know that you’re quitting. Some people find that talking to friends and relatives who have stopped can be helpful.
• Keep busy to help take your mind off cigarettes. Try to change your routine, and avoid the shop where you normally buy cigarettes.
• Treat yourself. If you can, use the money you’re saving by not smoking to buy yourself something special.

For more information on the services available and useful tips to stop smoking, visit the PHA’s Want 2 Stop website at  www.want2stop.info where you can also order a Quit Kit free of charge which will help you plan your quit attempt.