Around the start of each New Year, countless Americans make resolutions to improve their lives, whether it’s losing weight, eating healthier, or quitting smoking. Like many resolutions, quitting smoking is a process, and for many people that process could take several attempts before quitting for good. In fact, by the second week of February, about four out of five resolutions fail. Quitting smoking is no different.
Slips and relapses are common among people trying to quit smoking. To clarify, a slip is when someone has one or two cigarettes after quitting smoking. A relapse means going back to smoking regularly. While most slips or relapses occur within the first three months after quitting, they can happen at any time. If they happen, those looking to quit are encouraged to keep trying, and not get discouraged. They are not alone.
People who stop smoking often start again because of withdrawal symptoms and stress. , , The withdrawals are a result of nicotine, a very powerful and addictive drug. Nicotine withdrawal may create discomfort with symptoms including anxiety, depressed mood, irritability, restlessness and insomnia. Cravings and triggers are also common and can make quitting tobacco harder. However, these symptoms are an important part of the process, they show that the body is healing from the damage tobacco has done.
Though it can be hard to quit, having a plan and getting support can make all the difference. Understanding this will help those looking to quit move forward on their quit journey. About three in five adults who have ever smoked have now quit, suggesting that most smokers who keep trying eventually succeed. ,
The benefits are worthwhile, so much so that when someone stops smoking, they start getting healthier almost immediately. First, the risk for heart attacks drops and lung function improves within two weeks to three months. , As soon as two years after quitting, the risk of having a stroke drops. Within five years, the risk of mouth, throat, esophagus and bladder cancers declines. ,
“For those that have a slip up or relapse, Tobacco Free Florida can help get them back on track,” said Lacoadia Burkes, Interim Bureau Chief of Tobacco Free Florida. “Our free tools and services can significantly increase someone’s chances of quitting tobacco for good and help is a phone call or click away.”
The Quit Your Way program offers FREE services including Phone Quit, where those looking to quit can talk to a Quit Coach® to begin their journey; Group Quit a face-to-face group setting and Web Quit, an online resource that provides access to tools, tips and support. The Quit Your Way program, also provides access to individual tools like texting support, a Quit Guide and helpful emails. Free nicotine replacement therapy – nicotine patches, gum or lozenges – are available to tobacco users who are 18 or older, if deemed medically appropriate.
Working with healthcare providers can greatly increase the likelihood that those looking to quit achieve long-term success.
Tobacco Free Florida is here to help. The services are available for anyone in the state for free and provide support to healthcare providers and individuals looking to quit, alike. Visit them online at tobaccofreeflorida.com/quityourway.
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