Quitting Smoking: A Journey Towards Health and Happiness
Overview:
We believe in the General Administration of University Security that the vast majority of societies are fully aware that smoking is one of the most harmful habits to human health, and that it causes many chronic diseases such as cancer, heart and lung diseases as well as reducing life expectancy.
However, many of them may not know the correct ways to quit smoking in all its forms easily. With the initiative of the Administration, we adopt the following definition:
Types of methods to quit smoking:
1. Self-quitting:
- It is the most common method, and requires strong determination and will from the smoker.
- It is recommended to set a specific date to quit and stick to it.
- Avoid stimuli that arouse the desire to smoke, such as smoking friends or smoking places.
- Drink plenty of water and exercise regularly.
- Use relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation.
2. Nicotine replacement therapy:
- Nicotine replacements are available in different forms such as gum, skin patches, oral sprays, and nasal spray.
- Nicotine replacements help reduce nicotine withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating.
- Consult your doctor before using nicotine replacements.
3. Medication:
- Some medications to quit smoking include those that reduce the desire to smoke, relieve nicotine withdrawal symptoms, and improve mood.
- Consult your doctor before using any medication to quit smoking.
4. Cognitive behavioral therapy:
This type of therapy helps change thoughts and behaviors associated with smoking.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy can include individual or group sessions with a therapist.
Cognitive behavioral therapy helps identify stimulus that increase the desire to smoke.
Tips for quitting smoking:
- Set a clear goal to quit smoking.
- Tell your family and friends about your decision.
- Avoid stimulus that increase the desire to smoke.
- Reward yourself for your achievements.
- Don't give up if you fail at one attempt.
- Seek help from your doctor or a specialized therapist.
Remember:
- Quitting smoking is the best decision you can make for your health.
- There are many resources available to help you successfully quit smoking.
- Don't hesitate to ask for help from others.
Together, we can make our community smoke-free.
Useful websites:
Ministry of Health - Smoking Cessation Clinics /https://www.moh.gov.sa/Ministry/Projects/TCP/Pages/default.aspx
Saudi Society for Combating Smoking: https://naqa.org.sa/
Important note:
You must consult a doctor before using any medication or treatment method to quit smoking.