Become smoke-free with the quit smoking plan

Even if you are aware of the fact that you are doing something good for your body and health, the craving for cigarettes doesn’t just disappear on its own. Nicotine is an addictive substance, which makes the transition from smoker to non-smoker a difficult one. Following these tips will at least make quitting smoking a bit easier:

• Think about your situation. Why do you smoke? When and how often do you reach for a cigarette? Why do you want to stop smoking?
• Throw out all cigarettes, lighters and ashtrays before the big day.
• Get hold of a piggy bank. Collect the money which you would otherwise spend on cigarettes.
• You are twice as likely to give up smoking with coaching. Quit smoking hotline of the Swiss Cancer League: 0848 000 181 (CHF 0.08 per minute)
• Look for a friend who will support you in quitting. The SmokeFree Buddy app provides you with interactive help.
• Set a start date. The perfect time is during a trip to a foreign environment, as you are more receptive to the unfamiliar.
• Helsana will support you in completing a quit smoking course with contributions from the SANA and COMPLETA supplementary insurance products. With the Helsana+ app, there are also 1,500 Plus points for the preventative course.

• Avoid places where people smoke.
• You have a real craving for a cigarette? Persevere. It will pass after three to five minutes and such cravings will become less frequent.
• When and where do you smoke? Change your habits. For example, chew chewing gum after a meal.
• Distract yourself: with hand training, by taking a walk around the building, drinking water or completing breathing exercises.
• Medication or nicotine replacement products make the withdrawal from tobacco easier.
• Most relapses occur during the first week. Focus on your objective: to become healthier, fitter and freer.

• This is the most difficult phase! Reward yourself with the cigarette money you have saved.
• Your sense of smell and taste improves. Give it a try!
• If you are suffering the effects of withdrawal, acupuncture, Bach flowers and homeopathy can help.
• Sport curbs your desire to smoke and helps to keep your weight in check.

• Those who quit in good time improve their quality of life and are proven to live longer.
• Your skin appears fresher and younger.
• Your body’s blood circulation improves again. Your lungs also improve gradually.
• Relaxation techniques help to ensure you do not relapse when faced with stress.
• Apps such as “Stop-tabac” and “Quit Now” provide motivation. You see your progress in terms of your health, the increase in your life expectancy and useful tips.

• After one year, the risk of a heart attack halves.
• After five years, your risk of cervical cancer or a stroke is the same as that of non-smokers.
• After 10 years, your risk of dying from lung cancer is halved.
• After 15 years, your risk of coronary artery disease is the same as that of non-smokers.