Stop Smoking Support Programs

Smoking is among the top most habits that are difficult to break and this is primarily because of the withdrawal symptoms that smokers experience when they give up smoking. Any smoker who is trying to give up the habit needs tremendous medicinal as well as emotional support in order to overcome the intense nicotine cravings that follow. Fortunately there are now several support programs for ex-smokers that have been set up across the country, with the express purpose of offering support and help during a smoker’s tremendous battle against withdrawal symptoms.

Some of the commonest withdrawal symptoms include depression, mood changes, frustration and anxiety. Restlessness and irritability are also often experienced in the initial days.

Both, clinics as well as self-help groups offer stop smoking support programs. These programs are often run by professionals who would be willing to customize it to suit your requirements. Ex-smokers can choose to either enroll themselves for weekly sessions or they can attend more intensive support programs for stopping smoking. The duration of an intensive stop smoking support program could range from one week to fifteen days.

These stop smoking support programs are particularly popular because of the intensive counseling that is offered to smokers. Smokers are taught techniques for dealing with withdrawal symptoms and provided with guidance and support every step of the way. These counselors are available even after the smoker has completed the program, which is of tremendous help at preventing a relapse.

NRT or nicotine replacement therapy is often prescribed to complement the support provided by therapy and counseling. Some stop smoking support programs prescribe medications such as Zyban, which also help to stop smoking. There are other alternative treatments including meditation, acupressure and hypnosis procedure to choose from, but their success has not been proven.

NRT is commonly used because it lessens the nicotine craving that smokers experience in the early days of their fight against the smoking habit.NRT can be used in the form of inhalers, sprays, patches and gums. Patches and gums are considered safe and can be bought at any medical store. However, the other NRT forms should only be taken under medical supervision. With NRT, small amounts of nicotine are released into the body, which help the body slowly and steadily get over its dependency on nicotine. The dosage is regulated depending on the intensity of the withdrawal symptoms and it is only stopped when the urge to smoke completely disappears.

Zyban, which should be taken under medical supervision, creates feelings that are similar to those created while smoking. Pregnant women and patients suffering from epilepsy or heart disease are cautioned against taking Zyban because of potential adverse side effects.

Stop smoking support professionals offer smokers counseling and guidance and tell them of the benefits they can hope to gain when they stop smoking. Sessions could be either in a group or one-to-one.

Stop smoking support programs also provide a help line service 24/7 where counselors are available to listen, give advice and provide solutions in order to prevent a relapse. The support extended by family and friends in this regard, can be invaluable.