Advice on How to Stop Smoking

"I enjoy smoking and have done for the last 20 years - my new partner and my two adult children are ganging up on me to get me to stop. Should I continue as it gives me pleasure or do what they want?"

No matter what your family say it's you who decides whether to stop smoking or not. But it might help your decision to know or be reminded of some facts about smoking and not smoking.

Continuing to smoke is typically based on what we could call faulty assumptions - for example: 'enjoyment' (vs. release from withdrawal), 'choice' (vs. addiction), 'great taste' (vs. ice cream!), and 'just one more won't hurt' (vs. real health risks). The first step to stopping, or, crucially wanting to stop, may be re-evaluating the facts and what you actually get out of smoking.

Those who succeed in stopping smoking, find immediate benefits in terms of improved health (breathing, less infections), increased energy, as well as social benefits (smell, teeth colour) and financial savings. Do these possible benefits persuade you?

If you decide to try and stop, be positive about your ability to reduce and stop - many people try and many succeed. Remind yourself often why you are doing this. Set a date now for starting a smoke-free future. Think positively about not smoking and what that will be like. Help yourself persevere by avoiding situations where you are likely to feel like lighting up; keep busy, reduce pub time or time spent with other smokers who inadvertently put pressure on you to smoke as well. Maybe start some light exercise. This will make you feel less like a cigarette and also make you feel better. Remember also, that once you stop your lung capacity will increase and you will feel more energetic.

Your family must care deeply about you and want you to stay fit and well. If you decide to stop smoking, talk to them - they will all support and encourage you to stick it out. At the end of the day, once you succeed you may well be adding years onto your life, which is time you can all enjoy together.