Find motivation
Sufficient motivation is key to success. Think about your personal reasons for quitting smoking. Perhaps you want to feel better, reduce the risk of further complications, be more considerate of your family, or be more active. Remind yourself of your motivation often and don’t be afraid to talk about it with your loved ones.
Set specific and achievable goals
Be clear about what you want to achieve and when. Don’t put off your decision to quit smoking. The healthiest option is to quit smoking and tobacco products completely and not to use alternative aids such as electronic cigarettes, which also cause significant damage to the heart. However, reducing the number of cigarettes you smoke each day or switching to less risky forms is also a partial success.
Seek support from those around you
Help from family, friends, or support groups can increase your chances of success. Share your intention with those around you and find kindred spirits who will help you overcome difficulties. Try quitting smoking together with another smoker and motivate each other.
Consider nicotine replacement therapy
When trying to quit smoking, you can use substitutes such as nicotine patches or gum, which can help you gradually manage withdrawal symptoms. However, consult your doctor who is treating you for heart failure first. Simply administering nicotine is safer than smoking itself, but it can still have a negative effect on the heart.
Avoid triggers
Identify situations that tempt you to light a cigarette and try to avoid them. Look for other ways to relax.
Stay active
Physical activity is useful not only for relieving stress, but also for reducing cigarette cravings. Exercise regularly and consult your doctor or specialist nurse about suitable activities.
Don’t be too hard on yourself
Quitting smoking isn’t easy, and it can take some time for your body to adjust to the change. Be patient and don’t despair if you experience temporary dips in motivation. If you start smoking again, forgive yourself and start over.
Quitting smoking is difficult, don’t be ashamed to seek professional help
For many smokers, quitting for the long term is impossible without professional help. Don’t be afraid to ask your doctor or nurse for assistance. There are various programs and medications that can help you quit smoking.
