Smoking is one of the deadliest habits around, and while its prevalence has declined over the years, millions of people worldwide are still hooked on cigarettes.

That is why the World Health Organization (WHO) has designated May 31st as World No Tobacco Day or World Anti-Smoking Day. It is a day that promotes awareness, raises the profile of anti-tobacco efforts, and encourages people to quit smoking for good. Here are some strategies that can help make quitting smoking on World Anti-Smoking Day less daunting:.

1. Make a Plan

The first step in quitting smoking is to make a plan. Determine your reasons for quitting, identify potential triggers, set a quit date, and establish a support system.

You can speak with your doctor, a therapist, or a smoking cessation counselor for support and guidance as you prepare to quit.

2. Use Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT)

Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) can help reduce nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms when quitting smoking.

The most common types of NRT include nicotine gum, patches, lozenges, inhalers, and nasal sprays, all of which are available over the counter, no prescription required. Speak to your doctor for the most suitable NRT option for you.

3. Consider Prescription Medications

Several prescription medications can help you quit smoking, including bupropion and varenicline. These medications work by reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms and can increase your chances of quitting successfully.

Speak to your doctor if you’re interested in prescription medications.

4. Join a Support Group

Joining a support group can help you cope with the challenges of quitting smoking. These groups provide you with a community of people who are going through similar struggles, and you can share your experiences and learn from one another.

5. Avoid Triggers

Triggers can be environmental, social, and emotional factors that cause you to crave cigarettes. Once you identify your triggers, try to avoid them as much as possible.

If you can’t avoid them, learn coping mechanisms to deal with your cravings, such as deep breathing, or chewing gum.

6. Seek Professional Help

For severe smokers, quitting smoking can be a challenging task. That’s why it’s essential to seek professional help from a smoking cessation counselor, therapist, or your doctor.

They can provide you with more support and guidance in quitting smoking successfully.

7. Stay Busy

Keeping yourself busy can help you distract yourself from your cravings. Consider starting a new hobby, exercising, or engaging in activities that don’t usually include smoking.

Accomplishing new tasks can build your confidence and give you a sense of pride, making it easier to continue your quit journey.

8. Celebrate Your Successes

Quitting smoking is a challenging journey, and it’s crucial to celebrate your successes along the way. Every week or month that you’re smoke-free is something to be proud of and deserves recognition.

Consider rewarding yourself with a treat or indulging in an activity you enjoy.

9. Be Kind to Yourself

Finally, be kind to yourself throughout your quit journey. Quitting smoking can be challenging, and it’s okay to stumble along the way. Use any setbacks as learning opportunities, and don’t be too hard on yourself.

Celebrate your successes, no matter how small they may seem.

Conclusion

Quitting smoking is a challenging, but not an impossible task. On World Anti-Smoking Day, take your first step in becoming smoke-free.

Make a plan, utilize nicotine replacement therapy, join a support group, avoid triggers, seek professional help, stay busy, celebrate your successes, and other steps mentioned in this article. Consistently remind yourself that quitting smoking is a journey, not a destination. Good luck!.