You've always known about the harmful health effects of smoking and have decided to quit. Besides living longer, the cost of your health insurance premiums will also drop. This is the case because insurance companies know that nonsmokers are healthier and tend to make fewer insurance claims throughout their lives. Here are six tips on how to quit your smoking habit.
Nicotine Replacement Therapy
Nicotine replacement therapy has been shown to significantly increase one's chances of quitting smoking. These come in the form of patches, lozenges, inhalers, mouth sprays, nasal sprays and gum. They reduce withdrawal symptoms such as headache, nausea, fatigue, irritability and the craving to smoke. Consult with your doctor to learn which therapy is best for you.
Counseling and Support
Tell the people you know about your decision to quit. Their support and encouragement are important psychological motivators. In addition, you may want to get the help of a counselor or join a local support group.
Find Other Ways to Manage Stress 
When things get stressful, a smoker often reaches for a cigarette in order to relax. You will need to find other ways to manage your stress such as exercise, meditation, breathing exercises, your social network or music. Relaxing hobbies can also be very therapeutic.
Avoid Smoking Triggers
Certain sights or activities often serve as smoking triggers. Depending on the person, these may be drinking a cup of coffee, the sight of an ashtray, drinking alcohol or even the smell of cigarette smoke in your home or in public. Whichever apply to you, eliminate or find substitutes. Get rid of the smell of cigarette smoke by cleaning upholstery, carpets and other items that absorb smoke. Try drinking tea instead of coffee and avoid alcohol consumption until after you have stopped smoking.
Wait Out the Cravings
The craving to smoke generally lasts between three and five minutes. Wait these out by using a substitute such as hard candy, mints, chewing gum or even a ball that you can squeeze to relieve the stress.
Write a List of Reasons
Besides health, write down a list of personal reasons why you want to quit smoking. It could be the welfare of those who depend on you or a desire to do a marathon. Whatever they are, read these reasons every day and always keep them in mind.
Remember that many people with less will power than you have successfully stopped smoking, and there is no reason why you can't do the same. Simply keep at it one day at a time and you can succeed.
We’ll be your partner in good health. Call Prairieland Insurance Group, LLC at 217-352-9000 for more information on Miami health insurance.