Giving up smoking has a host of health benefits, but it can be really difficult; many people try to give up several times before either quitting for good or assuming that they will never be able to kick the habit. If you are thinking of giving up smoking, here are some tips to help you:

1. Get help

Most people are aware that giving up smoking is really difficult and requires a lot of willpower. Many smokers find it easier t give up if they have help from other people; group support sessions are really helpful and informative for many people and most find it easier to give up when they try alongside others. There are local sessions available in most areas of the UK and you can find out more about services in your area by asking your GP or your dentist. If you do not want to attend group sessions, there is help available for individuals too.

2. Change your routine

Many smokers have a set routine, which dictates when they smoke; for example, many people go out for a cigarette mid-morning at work, while others only smoke when they drink. Changing your routine will help you to reduce the number of cigarettes you smoke; it is also a good idea to keep busy, so that you are distracted and not thinking about smoking all the time.

3. Avoid other smokers

There’s nothing worse than seeing other people smoking when you are trying your hardest to give up. If you regularly hang out with other smokers, try to avoid them for a while, as it is often hardest to quit at the beginning; once you have gone without smoking and you are feeling stronger and more confident, you will be able to see other smokers without feeling the need to cave in.

4. Count the cost

One of the major incentives for giving up smoking is saving money; keep track of how much you save by writing down how much you would have spent on cigarettes per day, week or month. It is estimated that the average 20-a-day smoker saves more than £2,000 per year by giving up; imagine what you could do with that money! Many people also find it beneficial to use the money they save to treat themselves, whether it be something small now and again along the journey or an expensive treat to mark quitting for good.

5. Focus on health

Your health is the major beneficiary of giving up smoking, so take time to research how smoking affects the body and the good things you are doing to your health by giving up smoking. Quitting this addiction increases life expectancy and reduces your risk of several life-threatening diseases, including heart disease, strokes, cancer.