Newbies,
Here is some information on the most common methods of quitting:
Cold Turkey
What is it? Many quitters talk about how they've quit cold turkey. They say that one day they "just quit" without much thought or preparation.
Many, many psychological studies have taken a very close look at studied people who say they stopped suddenly and on their own. Most researchers can’t find a single person who had actually quit "cold turkey." What they did find was that every quitter went through stages in quitting.
People who quit cold turkey actually spend many months considering their situation. Although they may not be aware of it, in their own way, they completed all of the stages proven necessary to quit. They didn't use a nicotine replacement therapy, patch or gum, but they did make the same journey that you’re on.
What else should I know? Even if you choose to use an NRT, you need to prepare to quit in order to be successful. This means working through the Stages of Change. Using nicotine replacement therapy may increase your odds of success, by making cravings less severe, but not everyone needs them.
Nicotine Replacement Therapies (NRTs)
What is it? NRTs basically come in four forms and are commonly known as “the patch”, “nicotine gum" or "nicotine inhalers”.
How do they work? NRTs allow controlled amounts of nicotine to enter your bloodstream. So, while you're using an NRT you're not missing the nicotine your body craves. Do not smoke or dip or chew if you use an NRT. If you choose to use an NRT read the instructions carefully and consult your physician. You can buy NRTs at your local pharmacy. No prescription is required.
What else should I know? It is important to realize that NRTs will not "make you quit". NRTs help ease your cravings. Only YOU can make yourself quit and you do this by changing your behaviour. That is where this program comes in.
Which method did you decide to use? How did it help you?
Ashley, Health Educator
