10 Ways To Help Keep Yourself Smoke-Free (NAPS)—Consider the benefits of not smoking: no more hacking cough, improved senses of smell and taste, increased vitality and better physical appearance (less yellow on teeth andfingers). For manypeople, quitting smoking can be a wayto enjoy life more. Fortunately, there’s help available. For example, over-the-counter nico- tine patches and gum can help relieve the physical urge to smoke and withdrawal symptoms. A support program mayhelp you overcome the psychological and behavioral aspects of smoking as you reduceyournicotine intake. Here are some suggestions: 1. Write up a contract that you can sign that states your commitment to stop smoking. Display the contract in a place where everyone can seeit. 2. Tell your friends and family membersthat you have decided to quit smoking, and give them the reasonsfor this life-changing deci- sion. Have them reinforce these reasons when asked. 38. Extend an invitation to a smoker friend or family member Bit: Friends and family make up a strong support system for people whoaretrying to quit smoking. tion or talk about your good days. Call your “buddy” when you experience a craving. 8. Let your friends and family members know howthey can help you relieve some of yourstress. Maybe your best friend could go for a walk with you, your spouse could take you to your favorite restaurant or your kids could help out with chores. 9. Makea list of all the things to quit with you, but don’t force them to do so. Nagging a smoker you want to do when you are smoke-free that you haven’t done help him or her—as you likely know from experience. a marathon). Have your loved who is not ready to quit will not before (e.g., go on a bike trip, run 4. Ask that friends and family ones makea list of all the activities they want to do with you. 5. If any of your loved ones smoke, ask that ashtrays and cig- friends and family members are not smoke around you. arettes be kept out of your sight. 6. Tell your friends and family that you need to be the one to bring up the subject of quitting. 10. Emphasize how much you appreciate the support that your giving you. If you have chosen nicotine replacement therapy to help quit 7. Ask a friend or family mem- smoking, there are nowclinically proven behavior support pro- they would be your quitting “buddy” and let you vent frustra- chase of over-the-counter products. For more information, visit www.committedquitters.com. ber who is an ex-smoker, or one whois also attempting to quit, if grams available with the pur-
