Expository Essay

How to Quit Smoking

If you have tried to quit smoking, you know how hard it can be. It is difficult, because nicotine is a very addictive drug. One of every six deaths in the United States is related to smoking. Smoking is a proven health hazard, and there are clear benefits to quitting. There is no “safe” cigarette, and no safe level of smoking. For some people, it can be as addictive as marijuana, heroin, and even cocaine. Quitting smoking is difficult, it takes a lot of hard work and effort, but you can quit smoking. Usually, people make 3 or 4 tries or more before finally being able to quit. The point of this essay is to provide you with positive suggestions for improving your success of quitting smoking. There are a number of ways an individual can stop smoking. One can start by seriously thinking about quitting, and then set a date. To stop smoking, you must first decide to quit. Make a list of all the reasons you want to quit smoking. Keep the list where you would normally carry your cigarettes. This will help when you find yourself reaching for a cigarette. There are many situations that will trigger the urge to smoke, such as drinking coffee, alcohol, sitting at a bar or even after a meal. One can avoid these urges simply by chewing gum after a meal or drink. Exercising and taking long walks and meditation can also help fight the urge. Go to places where you would not normally smoke, such as movies, libraries, and even restaurants. In Louisiana, and probably some other states too, a Smoke Free Law passed, and smokers are prohibited to smoking in public places. They even have to be twenty-five feet away from the building. Tell people around you that are smoking, that you have quit and get away from the environment immediately. Inhaling second-hand smoke is just as harmful as smoking, and can increase your risk of developing many major diseases, such as coronary heart disease, lung cancer and many more. Another helpful tip for people who are trying to quit smoking is dealing with withdrawal symptoms. Some may think that a withdrawal symptom only happens when one is trying to quit heroin or cocaine. This is not true. A person who is trying to quit smoking may experience temporary withdrawal symptoms, such as anxiety, irritability, tiredness and excessive hunger. You can relieve these symptoms by exercising and getting plenty of rest. Eat well-balanced meals, and low calorie snacks. Drink plenty of fluids, especially water. If you are feeling irritated, take long, deep breaths and relax. A walk or reading your favorite magazine or book may even help. In conclusion, quitting smoking can be one of the best decisions you will ever make in your life. Within a few days or weeks, you may begin to notice changes in your body. Your sense of smell may improve, you will breathe easier, and your body’s overall energy increases. You will greatly decrease your chance of chances of developing heart disease, stroke and emphysema. I have been smoke-free for a little over a year now. I know I will live a longer, healthier life, and I have extra money to spend on things other than cigarettes. If I can do it, so can you!