The start of the year is a time for fresh beginnings. Many people make new year’s resolutions to improve their health, such as eating better or taking part in Dry January. If you smoke, this could be the perfect time to quit.
Fionn McManus is the healthier lifestyle team lead for long term conditions at West London NHS Trust. He explained why January is such a good time to stop smoking:
“People often see the New Year as a chance to try something new and improve their health. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for yourself. You will feel healthier, save money and get a real sense of achievement. Your family and friends benefit, too.”
Much more likely to quit
You do not have to do it alone. Fionn said people are 3 times more likely to quit successfully with support from a stop smoking service.
“Our service offers expert advice, behavioural support and stop smoking medicines,” he said. “We also provide free vapes for eligible residents as part of a government scheme. Setting a quit date helps because it gives you a clear goal. Your advisor will work with you to plan and stay on-track.”
According to Fionn, you will notice benefits extraordinarily quickly:
- after just 20 minutes, your heart rate and blood pressure would return to normal
- after only 8 hours, carbon monoxide levels in your blood would drop by half
- within 24 hours, carbon monoxide would be gone from your body
- and after a mere 3 days (72 hours), breathing would feel easier.
But the improvements keep coming. Within weeks, your circulation would improve. And, after one year, your risk of heart attack would become half that of a smoker.
It is quite a turnaround.
Withdrawal symptoms are normal. They can include cravings, irritability and loss of concentration. These are strongest in the first few days and usually ease after 3-4 weeks. Stop smoking medicines and vapes can help manage these symptoms.
Planning is key – and ignore the myths
Fionn said: “Think about your triggers, such as having a coffee or going to social events. Tell your friends and family you are quitting so they can support you. Clear your home of cigarettes and lighters. These small steps make a big difference.”
He also wants to bust a common myth.
Fionn said: “Many people think smoking helps with stress. Nicotine withdrawal makes you feel anxious. Smoking only relieves that withdrawal for a short time. People report feeling happier and more content after they quit.”
He added: “Most people need more than one attempt to quit. Each time you try, you learn something new. With the right support, you can succeed so don’t get discouraged.”
‘The perfect time for positive changes’
Contact Ealing Smokefree Service today for free, friendly help.
Councillor Polly Knewstub, the council’s cabinet member for healthier equal lives, said: “The new year is the perfect time to make positive changes. If you smoke, quitting is one of the best decisions you can make for your health and wellbeing. You will feel the benefits almost straight away, and our local Smokefree service is here to give you the support you need. Make quitting smoking your new year’s resolution and take that first step today.”
Find out more and book support via the West London NHS Trust website.
Ealing Smokefree Service will host a vaping information event on Thursday, 22 January, at Greenford Hall from 1pm to 5pm. Smokers attending will receive a free vape starter kit and practical tips on the best methods to quit. For more details and to register, visit the Eventbrite page.
