The Irish Cancer Society recommends the following steps to all smokers to help them quit:
Make a date to quit smoking on National No Smoking Day and write down the reasons for stopping.
Seek the support of family and friends and change routines that are associated with smoking.
Exercise and be careful with diet if worried about gaining extra weight [try fruit or sugar-free gum].
Think positively. Withdrawal symptoms are signs the body is recovering from the effects of tobacco.
Learn to deal with cravings by delaying acting on them for a few minutes; by drinking water or juice; by finding a distraction, and by relaxing and taking deep breaths. Nicotine replacement therapies are also an option.
Irish Cancer Society Quitline @ 1850 201203 Monday to Friday, 9 a.m.5 p.m.