How to Quit

There are various quit methods to choose from. While quitting cold turkey is one of the most effective methods, is it the best for you? Read on to find out how to make your quit journey a success.

Quit Methods

1. Gradual Reduction

If you feel that you are not ready to quit immediately, you can try cutting down on the number of cigarettes smoked each day. Start by cutting down on those cigarettes which you feel you can do without. Gradual reduction helps to reduce your body's dependence on cigarettes and will make your quit attempt later easier.

Related: How to Quit Smoking Gradually

2. Cold Turkey

For some smokers who have quit successfully, this is one of the most effective quit methods to start with! Simply decide to stop smoking on a particular date and stay firm on that decision! To avoid temptations, clear all your ashtrays, lighters and cigarette packs and remind yourself of your reasons for quitting. Arm yourself with practical quit tips and with a good dose of willpower, you will succeed!

3. Seek Professional Help from Smoking Cessation Counsellors

Smoking Cessation Counsellors will help to assess your level of addiction, customise a quit plan according to your needs and offer you useful advice and support during your quit journey. With professional help and support, you are four times more likely to quit successfully! You can combine professional advice with any of the other quit methods.

4. Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT)

NRT includes nicotine gum, skin patches, lozenges or inhalers. They work by releasing small amounts of nicotine into your body (substituting the nicotine in the cigarette) to counter cravings and relieve withdrawal symptoms. This helps you cope better with your day-to-day routine while you are quitting smoking. NRT is useful for smokers who are highly addicted to cigarettes.

NRT is widely available at most pharmacies and does not require a prescription to purchase.

5. Medication

Medication such as Buproprion Hydrochloride is nicotine-free and works by boosting the levels of chemical messengers in the brain. With more of these chemicals at work, you experience a reduction in nicotine withdrawal symptoms and a weakening of the urge to smoke. This oral medication is available only with a doctor's prescription. Consult your doctor to find out if this is suitable for you.

Related: Are e-cigarettes harmful?

Here Are Some Useful Tips to Quit Smoking.

There's no magic formula to quitting. Although NRT⁺ and medication can help to relieve some of the withdrawal symptoms, the key to success still lies with your willpower and determination to quit.

Kick start your quit journey by calling QuitLine at 1800 438 2000^ or join the I Quit Programme. Remain smoke free for 28 days and you are 5 times more likely to quit smoking. You can nominate your loved ones as a supporter when you sign up for the programme. Validate your smoke-free status and redeem a HPB eVoucher* worth $50 at the 28th day milestone. Keep going and you'll also receive eVouchers* worth $30 and $20 at the 3rd month and 6th month milestone respectively!

*Terms and conditions apply.

^Kindly note that airtime charges apply for mobile calls to 1800 service lines and calls are free of charge only if made from regular land lines.

⁺Do note that NRTs are not provided as part of the I Quit Programme

Read these next: