STAMP OUT SMOKING
Each year, millions of Americans
try to quit smoking.
While there are some who succeed, others find quitting to be difficult at
best. If you are one of those who have tried to quit in the past, the
American Cancer Association points out that the more times you try to quit
smoking the more likely you will be successful. Motivations to quit
vary among people who attempt to quit smoking. In any case, it is helpful to
examine reasons to stamp out smoking.
There are many potential benefits to quitting smoking. Better health is a major motivator to quit smoking. Cigarette smoking increases one’s chances of high blood pressure, heart disease, circulatory diseases and cancer. In terms of quality of life, clothes smell better whether at work or home. Additionally, one's taste and sense of smell are vastly improved. Quitting smoking isn't just a matter of good intentions. A holistic program involving physical, psychological and spiritual elements can be helpful.
Physically, smokers’ bodies become accustomed to nicotine. An important part of a smoking cessation program is to gradually reduce the need for nicotine in the body. Smoking is a learned behavior that occurs within certain contexts and thought processes. So, a basic insight into the role of one’s environment, emotions and anticipation of events associated with smoking is essential. Spirituality can give people the strength to take on the challenge of making a life change such as quitting smoking.
Would you like to quit smoking but aren’t sure how? Or perhaps you know someone who has struggled to quit but has encountered difficulties. There are many programs to quit smoking.
If you would like more information regarding this topic, please call the Civilian Employee Assistance Program Counseling and Referral Service (CEAP C/RS) at (202) 433-0087 or outside the local dialing area you may use 1-800-995-9791.