Quit Smoking For Good

Stopping smoking is very hard, especially when going it alone. Many people have successfully learned how to quit smoking after getting help from stop smoking programs. If you have tried to quit smoking and failed and have wondered if a stop smoking program could help you, then read how to choose one that is right for you.

The Different Types of Stop Smoking Programs

You can take smoking cessation classes, have private counseling, join a support group run by a therapist or join a 12 step program like Nicotine Anonymous. But all good stop smoking programs have certain things in common:

Plenty of Sessions – Whether it is a formal class or just a one-on-one with a private counselor, your program should hold sessions or classes over several weeks. A good program should have at least 4 to 7 meetings as the minimum for you to get the most out of class or program.

Adequate Session Times – You should have sessions that last at least 30 minutes or longer. Any shorter and you are still getting your coat off and redirecting your mind from the “busy-ness” of the day! An hour or 45 minutes is ideal. Don’t let yourself be pushed into a “get in, get out” mindset.

Help Past Your Quit Date – Some stop smoking programs are designed to spend several weeks preparing for you for your quit date. Others like a 12 step program have ongoing support before and after your quit date. Still others work with you 2-3 weeks past your quit time before ending. The programs that assist after you quit seem to have the most success and are the most useful.

Money Matters – A stop smoking program should be affordable and fit into your budget. Most communities have free or low-cost public stop smoking programs hosted by local health departments. Private programs can either be very reasonable (usually in a group setting) or cost a bit higher for individual counseling. Choose the program you can afford. No sense in adding money woes to an already stressful situation.

Be Flexible – Public health stop smoking programs and some private support groups have preset schedules and may only teach a class or program a few times during the year. You should take this into consideration and be willing to change your quit date to match that of the program.

It’s Not Easy – You should avoid any stop smoking program that implies that quitting is going to be quick or easy. There is no “magic pill” despite all the great treatment prescriptions available. Choose a program where the counselors are honest with you but supportive.

Use the Internet – A good many stop smoking programs make after hours help available via a website or by email. The Internet allows you 24-7 access to program information, publications or contact with a mentor/sponsor or counselor. And the Web also works well for those are uncomfortable in a group setting.

Again, regardless of the paths you take to quit smoking, starting down one or more now will mean you stop that much sooner.  Quit, and quit again if necessary.