গ্রুপ সেশনগুলি কীভাবে আমাকে ধূমপান ত্যাগ করতে সাহায্য করেছিল - ভিকের গল্প

Vic joined the stop smoking group in Stowmarket after experiencing multiple health issues which she knew were being caused or aggravated by smoking cigarettes.

“I’m always getting chest infections and sinus issues, so I went to talk to my doctor as I just seem to pick up infections all the time. I was finding that I was on antibiotics every other month and I just couldn’t breathe very well sometimes. Even going up and down the stairs felt like a struggle, and at my age which is 45 I just thought it shouldn’t be like that.

I mentioned the fact I no longer wanted to smoke, and my doctor advised I referred to Feel Good Suffolk which I did and that’s when I found out about the group.”

Vic explained that she really liked the sound of the stop smoking group sessions and preferred the idea of this compared to the offer of one-to-one support – in fact, she was the first to sign up!

Like many smokers, Vic had attempted to stop smoking before but had only ever tried to stop on her own through going cold turkey and although she was successful at the time, some stressful events saw her eventually returning to smoking.

“This time around I only managed to stop for two days so although I wanted to quit, I knew I didn’t have the willpower to do it on my own this time, which is why I reached out for support. I managed to cut down a bit before coming along to my first session. It made me feel really good knowing I was going to be attending a group and I was going to be doing something about it. I wasn’t sure how many people would attend the group, but it didn’t bother me because I knew we would all be there for the same reason.

Vic explained attending a group hasn’t been stressful, but that it has been really helpful to hear of other people’s struggles and how they cope and manage challenges or setbacks.

“Before attending the stop smoking group I was smoking around 15 cigarettes per day and although I smoked, I was active. I attended two exercise classes per week, but I was really struggling to breath, it felt like I was being suffocated despite doing something which was supposed to be good for me.”

With the support of the stop smoking group and her advisor, Sophie, Vic successfully stopped smoking whilst using patches and a vape.

“Within just a week of stopping smoking, I already found that I had more energy, and my legs didn’t feel as heavy. Fast forward a few more weeks and I am less breathless, I have had no chest infections, I am no longer needing to use my steroid sinus inhaler, and I have not been back on antibiotics – It is such a huge improvement.”

Vic went on to explain that as well as improving her health, she has also found that she’s been saving herself around £120 per month, which with three children, is a huge help.

Despite family members still smoking, Vic is confident now that she will continue as a non-smoker.

“Even the smell around me is horrible and I am so glad I no longer smoke. If you are wanting to become smoke- free I would encourage you to get in touch with Feel Good Suffolk – you have nothing to lose, and it will make you feel better.”

If you are ready to become a non- smoker in 2026, our team of friendly, non-judgemental advisors are ready to support you as soon as you are.

Simply complete a self- referral form at https://feelgoodsuffolk.co.uk/make-a-referral/

Or call the team on 0345 603 4060