Are you trying to quit smoking and wondering if you really have it in you to give up such a powerfully addictive drug? There is no doubt about it, most smokers have to try several times before they are able to quit once and for all. If it has been a while since you last tried to quit, or if you have never tried to quit, you should take a few moments to look into all the different methods to quit smoking cigarettes.
First, there is the “cold turkey” method. This is the old-fashioned way of doing it, and requires a lot of willpower and strength and determination. Quitting cold turkey means you make the decision to quit one day, and you just do it, with no outside help. Some people are successful with this method, but most find they need some sort of help to quit.
Next, there are the smoking-cessation products put out by the drug companies.
Generally referred to as Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT), these products are designed to wean you off nicotine. They contain nicotine and are used instead of cigarettes to help you steadily decrease your dependence on smoking. They come in different forms such as gum, lozenges, and patches.
Also, you may want to try one of the “alternative” methods such as hypnosis or acupuncture. Some people are quite successful with these methods, while others are not. Similar to acupuncture, is a newer method called quit smoking laser therapy, which relies on stimulating certain areas of the body to reduce the craving for nicotine long enough to get you over the major withdrawal period. Some folks, too, can benefit from a combination of herbs that can help you quit.
There is now even an injection – yes, a shot – that you can get at your doctor’s office that may help you say goodbye to your dependence on smokes forever. Imagine – no more counting the minutes until your next smoke break and no more getting out of breath by climbing a flight of stairs.