First, quitting is going to be difficult--there
is no proven easy way to stop smoking, but the benefits to you and all
around you is worth the effort. The good news is that there are many products
and programs available to try to lessen the burden you are taking on. Smoking
includes two separate components that you will have to deal with : the
physical addiction to nicotine and the "habit" of smoking the
cigarette, often associated with taking a break or finishing a meal. Nicotine
gum and patches can be prescribed by your doctor to help with the nicotine
problem by decreasing the side-effects of withdrawl. These supplements
cost about the same amount of money as maintaining a pack per day habit.
The psychologic side may be more difficult and requires a lot of willpower
to overcome, so the more support you can muster from family, friends or
support groups the better. Ask your doctor or contact the American Cancer
Association about smoking cessation classes and groups in your area.
Occasionally local universities sponsor research groups
for new ways to stop smoking, so you might also try this alternative if
you are interested.