Stopping smoking is a very, very difficult thing to do. Not only do you have to contend with letting go of the physical attachment with a cigarette, but you are fighting psychological elements as well. Psychological elements include everything from mood swings, depression and anxiety, and other withdrawal symptoms. Overcoming all of this is no small task indeed!
There are a number of therapeutic options available today to help you quit smoking. The most sought after treatments are behavioral and emotional therapy, counseling and medication. Alternative methods like yoga, acupressure and meditation are also becoming popular. Both government and private organizations run these programs.
A useful stop smoking therapy is Nicotine Replacement Therapy, or NRT. It enjoys a high success rate, and the percentage of relapse is quite low. The therapy negates your withdrawal symptoms by regulating your nicotine intake during the treatment period.
NRT products come in the form of nasal sprays, pills, chewing gums and patches. All of them contain a required amount of nicotine, which is released in your body. The dosage is reduced as your dependence on nicotine fades. Since your withdrawal symptoms are closely regulated and monitored, quitting becomes easier. It is, however, advisable to consult a doctor before using NRT.
You can also use the drug Zyban to stop smoking. Zyban, which was originally used as an antidepressant, is now widely used for helping people quit smoking. It is marketed in tablet form and creates a false feeling of well being in the person. The feeling is very much similar to one experienced while smoking. The dosage is regulated over a period of time before being stopped. It is available only by prescription, because there can be side effects.
Another form of stop smoking help is combination therapy. If you feel a single line of treatment is not effective then you can add other treatment forms as well. That is why some smokers decide on counseling therapy and medication together.
The biggest advantage of counseling is that they tell you how to deal with the emotional difficulties you encounter when facing withdrawal. This is very helpful. Also, each case is treated individually. A specific line of treatment is chalked out to suit you personally. This, along with medication, increases your chances of successfully quitting.
Most government health organizations have set up a 24-hour help line service that is dedicated to supporting smokers who are trying to quit. Professional psychologists answer almost all the queries. If you are a first timer then you can probably meet a psychologist and take your case forward.
Self-support groups and organizations set up by ex-addicts also provide stop smoking help. They are extremely beneficial if their program structure suits your needs. However, be cautious about fake clinics that promise instant success.
Today people are also trying new techniques like hypnosis, yoga, acupressure, and meditation. Most of these programs calm your mind and enable you to control your emotions better. After doing these courses you are mentally stronger and can tell yourself not to smoke. However, there is no guarantee of success.