Quitting smoking is not an easy thing to do. Anyone who has tried, even if they were successful, will likely say it was extremely difficult. There are a variety of ways to try and quit smoking. If one way is unsuccessful try another. Quitting smoking as soon as possible is imperative to your health and the health of those around you. Before beginning any non-smoking program be sure to discuss it with your doctor.

The method most people try is to quit cold turkey. Unfortunately, this method is rarely successful. Quitting cold turkey means that you stop smoking cigarettes completely and never have another one. A few people have the will power to quit cold turkey, but there is more than willpower involved with this process. Your body is physically addicted to nicotine, suddenly stopping will result in fairly serious withdrawal symptoms. Quitting cold turkey may work for some people, but generally most people will start smoking again within a few days.

Another option is to use nicotine gum or patches to slowly wean yourself off of your nicotine addiction. There are directions on the packages for use, and many people find this method a great way to quit smoking. This way you can also wean yourself off at your own pace. Be sure to follow directions on the package very carefully. The best idea is to make an appointment with your doctor to discuss your plan. Some people do find this method unsuccessful because it does not satisfy the hand to mouth habit that smoking has developed. Unfortunately smoking usually becomes not only a physical addiction but a mental and emotional one as well.

Another option to consider is using medication to help you quit your smoking habit and nicotine addiction. Again, check with your doctor to discuss your options. Your doctor can prescribe a medication that is successful with few side effects. Of course, never take any medication that has been prescribed to someone else - the medication could adversely affect you or interfere with other medications you may be taking.

If you are successful in your quest to stop smoking, know that the process will go on for the rest of your life. The social aspects are still there, even if you’ve beat the addiction. In the beginning stages at least, you may need to change your lifestyle. An example of what this means is to consider how many people like a cigarette with their drinks. Until you gain some confidence it would probably be best to tell your friends you won’t go out drinking for a while.

If you smoke you should see your doctor immediately. Quitting now can add years to your life and help you avoid many diseases that can be contributed to smoking. Do yourself a favor and start quitting today.