A Way to Stop Smoking

The path to quitting smoking is different for every person. Many of the reasons why people smoke---such as stress or nicotine addiction---may be common, but without proper support or stepping outside the box of traditional quitting smoking techniques, the willpower to quit can be compromised. But strategies like acupuncture, enlisting family members and using prescribed medications can all help you quit smoking.

Prescribed Medications

Two Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved medications, Zyban and Chantix, are available for prescription as a way to stop smoking. They work by addressing brain structure and neurons that contribute to smoking. Chantix reactivates nicotine receptors to better receive nicotine from cigarette smoke. This reduces the cravings, which can curb smoking over time. Zyban actually improves a smoker's mood by acting as an anti-depressant. Zyban addresses dopamine and norpinephrine brain levels by regulating them. When levels of both are off, they can lead to cravings and addictions associated with smoking.

Despite their success, the FDA warns that they can also affect the smoker's mental health. They recently required both medication's manufacturers to instruct consumers to alert their physicians should they experience thoughts of suicide or severe depression symptoms. Users should only take the medications as prescribed.

Acupuncture

If the thought of needles terrifies you, you may want to re-think that fear if you want to quit smoking.

Acupuncture is another smoking cessation technique that involves inserting thin needles through various parts of the body. The locations are first determined after a counseling session by the specialist, who will try to find the root cause or associated causes of smoking. He'll also counsel you on preparing for life after smoking, such as addressing cravings. The acupuncture specialist will then begin to insert sterilized needles into body parts that will promote a healthy flow of healing. These points could be nerve endings, muscles or blood vessels. After at least a half hour of relaxation, the needles are removed.

Family Support

Involve your family as a way to quit smoking. One way to combat weight gain often associated with quitting smoking is through exercise; choose family-friendly forms like playing Frisbee, riding bikes or swimming. If you have family members who smoke, encourage them to quit with you. If they choose not to, have them let you know when they plan to smoke so you can leave the area and avoid temptation. Families should also understand that your mood may become irritable and irrational, two symptoms of smoking withdrawal. Encourage them to have patience and encourage you to stay on path.