Livewell Southwest has revealed the number of people in Plymouth it has helped to kick cigarettes in the last 12 months to mark National No Smoking Day this week.
Livewell, Plymouth’s community health and care provider, offers a wide range of methods to help people quit through the One You Plymouth programme it delivers. And latest figures show that over 1,100 people have been supported to quit since April 2018.
Smoking cessation practitioner Mel Edwards said: “Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health, your social life and your pocket. Smoking remains one of the biggest reasons for people suffering ill health in later life through heart disease or breathing problems.
“But many smokers who want to quit aren’t sure about the best way to go about it. Relying on willpower alone is the least effective way to stop. Quitting with support means you are four times more likely to be successful.
“National No Smoking Day, which has been running since 1984, is a great opportunity for us to spread the word on the harm that smoking does, and to tell people about the range of help and support available to them once they decide they want to stub it out.”
One You Plymouth offers free one-to-one support to help people at clinics across the city and offers various options including nicotine replacement therapy, Champix and advice on E-cigarettes and how to use them as part of a quit attempt.
Plymouth resident Reece Rixon, is 27 and has smoked since was 11. He wanted to quit because he woke up one day and he noticed that he was suffering the effects of smoking on his skin, hair and teeth – he became very concerned that he was damaging his long term health.
“Julie Fortt, One You practitioner, helped him by working out a plan of action, supporting this with the right doses of nicotine replacement and maintaining contact to keep him motivated.
Reece said: “I feel re-born. I’m looking, eating and sleeping better – I feel great! The One You team offered a lot of support really stuck by me.”
For more information go to www.oneyouplymouth.co.uk
Our top five tips to kick the habit
Tip #1
Prepare for the day – reduce and avoid stressful situations where possible to give you the best possible chance of having a good first day. Get rid of any cigarettes, tobacco, cigars, lighters and matches. Avoid places such as pubs and social events for a short period to avoid temptation in the early stages.
Tip #2
Download the Smokefree app to your mobile phone so that you can access support and help when needed. Make plans to access help and support via the local pharmacies/GP practices or the One You Plymouth team at Livewell Southwest on 01752 437177.
Tip #3
Think about why you want to quit and remain smoke-free:
- Feeling great
- Reduced health risks
- Extra money in your pocket
- Improved breathing and general fitness
- Fresher breath
- An improved sense of smell and taste
- Less stress and anxiety
- Cleaner lungs and a stronger heart
Tip #4
You may wish to consider some form of medication to help you stop smoking, although everyone has their own ways of coping and below are some good distractions for those difficult days.
- Talk to someone – call a friend or relative to get some support
- Go for a brisk walk – this will help clear your head and lungs
- Stay busy – use the Smokefree app or play a game on your mobile phone
- Drink a glass of water or juice – keep yourself occupied for those crucial few minutes
- Change scene – just moving to another room can help, or step outside and get some fresh air
Tip #5
Last but not least – YOU CAN DO THIS. There is so much help and support out there. Go to www.oneyouplymouth.co.uk which will signpost in all the right direction. And remember there is never just “one cigarette” – so remain focused and stay busy.
