Make a change this Stoptober

October brings a unique opportunity to make a positive change in your life – Stoptober.

Stopping smoking is the best thing you can do for your health.

This month-long initiative encourages smokers to quit the habit for 28 days, with the hope that they might give up smoking for good. Smokers who stay smoke-free for 28 days are five times more likely to succeed for good.

Quitting smoking can be daunting, but Stoptober creates a supportive environment where thousands of others are also taking the plunge.

Knowing you are not alone can provide the encouragement and motivation you need.

Why stop?

1. Better health: Smoking is linked to numerous health problems, including respiratory diseases, heart conditions, and cancer. By quitting, you will significantly reduce your risk of these diseases.
2. Improved quality of life: Non-smokers often experience better physical fitness, improved taste and smell, and higher energy levels. You’ll likely find everyday activities like walking, climbing stairs, and exercising much easier.
3. Positive impact on loved ones: Second-hand smoke can harm those around you. By quitting, your loved ones are protected from the harms of secondhand smoke.
4. Enhanced appearance: Smoking accelerates the ageing process, leading to wrinkles, yellow teeth, and dull skin. Quitting can improve your appearance, giving you a more youthful and vibrant look.
5. Mental wellbeing: While smoking is often used as a stress reliever, it actually contributes to anxiety and stress in the long run. Quitting can improve your mental health and emotional well-being, making you feel more in control of your life.
6. You’ll also have more money in your pocket, and being free from smoking is liberating – you will feel like you are back in control of your health and wellbeing.

Tips for Success

• Set a quit date: Choose a specific date to quit and stick to it. Use the time leading up to this date to prepare mentally and physically.
• Seek support: Inform friends, family, and colleagues of your plan to quit. Their encouragement and understanding can make a significant difference.
• Use your local stop-smoking service: Take advantage of the free resources and expertise you can access through your local stop-smoking
  service, Feel Good Suffolk.
• Stay active: Physical activity can help reduce cravings and improve your mood. Find an exercise routine that works for you and stick to it.
• Reward yourself: Celebrate your milestones. Whether it’s a week, a month, or a year smoke-free, rewarding yourself can keep you motivated.
• Did you know you are three times more likely to succeed with support from a qualified stop-smoking advisor?

We know it’s hard to stop smoking, and that it can take several attempts. It doesn’t matter if you’ve tried before.

Feel Good Suffolk can help you find a way to stop smoking that works for you. The best thing is that it’s free, and there are lots of options to help you.

Ready to start your smoke-free journey?

Feel Good Suffolk can tailor support to suit you. When you submit a referral, one of our friendly advisors will take the time to discuss your needs with you and find the approach that will set you up for success. Your advisor can be contacted throughout your stop-smoking journey if you have any questions or concerns.

Make a referral here today