Smokefree Island is encouraging people who smoke across the Isle of Wight to give quitting another go this Stoptober, with free local support available.
Around 11,000 people on the Isle of Wight still smoke, and while many would like to quit, stopping smoking is not always easy. Those who have tried before and found themselves smoking again are certainly not alone.
It can take several attempts before someone stops smoking for good. Rather than seeing a previous attempt as a failure, each one can help people understand what works for them and what might make things easier next time.
Most people know that stopping smoking is good for physical health, but the benefits can go much further.
Many people worry that quitting will make them more stressed or anxious. In fact, once withdrawal symptoms have eased, many people who quit report feeling less stressed, less anxious and more in control.
There are financial benefits too. Money previously spent on smoking can instead go towards family, days out, holidays or simply making everyday life that little bit easier.
The body also starts recovering after the last cigarette, and reaching 28 days smoke-free is an important milestone. People who stop smoking for 28 days are 5 times more likely to quit for good.
There are plenty of myths about quitting that can make taking the first step feel harder than it needs to be.
People can choose to go ‘cold turkey’, but they do not have to. With support from a trained professional and nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), people are around 3 times more likely to quit successfully than if they try without support.
Having tried to quit before does not mean there is no point in trying again. Smoking is highly addictive, and it can take several attempts to quit for good. What someone learned during their previous attempt could help make their next one more successful.
Although smoking might feel like it helps people deal with stress, nicotine withdrawal between cigarettes can contribute to feelings of stress and anxiety. Quitting can improve mood and reduce anxiety over time.
People also do not have to rely on willpower alone. Getting the right support can make quitting more manageable and provide a much better chance of success.
Elvis, who quit with support from Smokefree Island, has said:
“My breath is clearer, my mind is sharper, and my body no longer feels held hostage.”
Michelle has added:
“Don’t be afraid of quitting. Find new ways to cope, be brave and give it a go.”
Raegan Farley, Head of Service for Smokefree Island, has said:
“If you’ve tried to quit before and it didn’t quite work out, don’t let that put you off trying again. Smoking is highly addictive, and it can take more than one attempt to quit for good.
“The important thing is that you don’t have to do it alone. With the right support, you’re much more likely to succeed, and our team is here to help you find an approach that works for you.”
Smokefree Island is the Isle of Wight’s free stop smoking service, offering support including one-to-one help from experienced stop smoking advisors and free nicotine replacement therapy.
Advisors can help people find an approach that works for them, manage cravings and stay motivated throughout their quit journey.
People do not need to see their GP to get started and can contact Smokefree Island directly.
The service is free for people aged 12 or over who live, work, study or are registered with a GP on the Isle of Wight and currently use tobacco or nicotine products.
Those looking to give quitting another go this Stoptober can text QUIT to 80011 or visit www.smokefreeisland.co.uk/stoptober to get started.
