Working towards a smoke-free life

Smoking is no way to be accepted by your peers or rebel against authority. Know where to draw the line. Learn to say ?no? to the wrong things.

Smoking is no way to be accepted by your peers or rebel against authority. Know where to draw the line. Learn to say “no” to the wrong things.

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You are who you are, you don’t have to be like the others. So be different in the choices that you make.

Smoke Scare

Young smokers grow up to be adult smokers, and in many cases, die of smoking-related diseases such as cancer and emphysema.

Burning tobacco produces hundreds of chemicals, when inhaled into the lungs. These chemicals are believed to cause genetic damage to cells, leading to cancer.

Inhaling cigarette, cigar, or pipe smoke damages the cardiovascular system, leading to heart and respiratory diseases.

Tobacco smoke contains tar, which is known to cause lung cancer and bronchial disorders. An average cigarette contains 15 mg. of tar. A person who smokes a pack of cigarettes per day inhales about eight ounces of tar each year. 

Second-hand or passive smoking is dangerous. Estimates reveal that more than 50,000 people die each year from heart diseases alone caused by breathing second-hand smoke.

Staying smoke-free

Don’t give in. Once you have quit, remain determined. Occasionally, you will crave for a cigarette. Remind yourself of the reason why you quit smoking — to live well.

Occupy your mind and hands with creative work.

Oral substitutes, such as chewing gum, raisins, etc, can also help.

During your first smoke-free week, avoid situations which remind you about smoking.

Withdrawal symptoms experienced during this time are temporary.With will power, commitment and the support of family and friends, you can make it through.

Ask your doctor about Fading Techniques like nicotine patch, gum, etc.

The writer is a Counselling Psychologist and can be reached at 9811228101 or you can email her atsurimadhu@hotmail.comorhtnext@hindustantimes.com