Health, family, money, appearance, energy and fertility are just some of the reasons why people want to stop smoking but for most people, stopping smoking is tough.
Wirral’s stop smoking service is ABL Wirral. The team is on hand to provide tailored and personal support for anyone who wishes to quit smoking, using chewing tobacco, shisha or electronic cigarettes. Those wanting to stop can get quick and free access to support sessions and approved medicines to help.
Support includes:
- 12 week programme
- medications to help stop smoking
- one-to-one sessions
- group sessions
- drop-in clinics
- appointment only clinics
It might take a few attempts, but it’s really worth it when you finally kick that habit for good!
Get in contact with the team today for free, confidential advice:
- Call: 0151 541 5656
- Text ABL to 60777
- E-mail: [email protected]
For more information visit ABLHealth
Stop smoking support in Cheshire East
Free non-specialist smoking services are available in the community from a range of different organisations as part of the Council’s ‘One You Cheshire East’ Service.
Live Well Cheshire East also provides a wealth information about the local support services available throughout the area.
Stop smoking support in St Helens
Visit St Helens Smokefree to find out more about the local support services available, including telephone and text support.
Stop smoking support in Knowsley
Visit Smokefree Knowsley to find out more about the local support services available, including telephone and text support.
Tips to quit smoking
List the reasons why you want to stop smoking and keep reminding yourself of them:
- health
- family
- money
- appearance
- energy
- fertility
Keep the list in your phone or take a photograph of it, stick it on your fridge, keep it in the car, or write it on a post it note, stick it to your computer at work and read it when you need support.
Tell people around you that you are stopping smoking
Having the support of those close to you will help you along your stop smoking journey. It’s important to let family and friends know you are stopping smoking. They can check in on you and help distract you if cravings strike.
Remember what’s worked before
If this isn’t your first attempt to quit smoking don’t worry. You’ll have learnt a lot from your previous attempt. Write down what worked well and keep a record of your progress.
Use stop smoking aids
Stop smoking aids, such as nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) and e-cigarettes, increase your chances of quitting successfully compared to willpower alone.
Have a plan
If you have a potentially stressful event, like a wedding or important day at work, plan what you will do if you’re tempted to smoke. If you’re using an e-cigarette or NRT, make sure you have them with you.
Change your routine
List your smoking triggers and think about how to avoid them – it’s really important. If you usually smoke at certain times – after food, with a coffee or after putting the kids to bed – decide ahead what to do instead of lighting up.
Keep busy
You can help manage your cravings by distracting yourself. When cravings strike try to keep busy eg go for a walk, play a game on your mobile or phone a friend to keep busy. If you have NRT or an e-cigarette, use them as much as necessary to keep cravings at bay.
Exercise away the urge
Exercising may help reduce your nicotine cravings. When you have the urge to smoke, do something active instead eg go to the gym or for a swim, or do a little gentle exercise like a short walk.
Learn from others
Support groups are a great way to meet new people on their stop smoking journey and share tips and advice. Join the closed support group on Facebook @SmokefreeQuitSmokingSupport Group