Challenge yourself to quit for National No Smoking Day

8 March 2019

Wednesday 13 March is National No Smoking Day and people up and down the country will be challenging themselves to give up smoking.

There have been some great improvements in Southwark when is comes to reducing levels of smoking. Since 2011, the number of smokers in the borough has fallen by more than a third and prevalence is now lower than both London and national averages.

In the immediate hours after quitting smoking your body goes through some incredible changes. After just 8 hours nicotine and carbon monoxide levels in blood reduce by more than half and oxygen levels return to normal. After 48 hours carbon monoxide is eliminated from the body. Your lungs start to clear out mucus and other smoking debris. Nicotine is eliminated from your body and your ability to taste and smell improves. 

After 72 hours of giving up cigarettes, breathing becomes easier, your bronchial tubes begin to relax and energy levels increase.

Cllr Evelyn Akoto, cabinet member for community safety and public health said: “Every cigarette you smoke causes real harm, not just to yourself but to those around you who suffer the effects of second hand smoke. With the right support, you are four times more likely to quit than if you go it alone. National No Smoking Day is a great time to give you the kick start you need to quit for good.”

Here are some tips to help get you started on your journey to quitting for good:

Identify your motivation for quitting

Are you wanting to get fit? Have more energy for the kids? Perhaps it’s a special day or event coming up that you’re planning to be smoke free for? Get inspired by seeing how much money you could save when you quit.

Understand your triggers for smoking

If you know that you’re more likely to smoke in certain situations - such as when you drink - work out a strategy to combat this. Visit Stop Smoking London for more tips and ideas to overcome your triggers.

Decide how you’ll beat the cravings

Nicotine changes the chemicals in our brains which is one of the reasons it’s so hard to quit. Note down what tools or distraction methods you’re going to use when you get a craving. Learn more about the nicotine products you can use to quit.

Harness the power of technology

There are several apps out there that can help you when you’re quitting. 

Find the download links to all of Stop Smoking London’s recommended apps here.
 

Page last updated: 08 March 2019