Thousands Of Somerset Smokers Prepare To Quit On No Smoking Day - March 11, England

Main Category: Smoking / Quit Smoking
Article Date: 25 Feb 2009 - 5:00 PDT

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Somerset NHS Stop Smoking Service is preparing to help smokers in Somerset as they join millions of UK smokers to stop on No Smoking Day. This year's theme, 'take the first step', acknowledges that No Smoking Day is the first step of a quitting journey and individuals will not be alone in their quit attempt. The theme lends itself to the message that smoking is an expensive habit and you can save a packet if you give up!

So why not take the first step this No Smoking Day? You can take the first step with the help and support that is available from Somerset NHS Stop Smoking Service. Those who do stop smoking on March 11 will gain health and financial benefits in next to no time, including:

Feeling fitter and having loads of energy to start that healthy lifestyle - not feeling out of breath when the dog takes you for a brisk walk!

Saving loads of money - giving up a 20-a-day will is like a £40 a week pay rise! Stop on No Smoking Day and by June you can save almost £500

Having a better sex life - smoking can create hormonal imbalances which decrease libido

Jonathan Chetland, Somerset Stop Smoking Specialist, said, "Around 22% of adults in Somerset smoke and research has shown that over two thirds of them would like to stop. No Smoking Day provides an excellent opportunity for them to do that. By using the support available on No Smoking Day and throughout the year you can significantly increase your chance of success."

Here's some top tips to help you:

Call your local free stop smoking service on 0844 568 9840 or visit http://www.somersetstopsmoking.nhs.uk and check out what it offers - you are 4 times more likely to stop smoking

Get some Nicotine Replacement Therapy such as patches or gum. It can double your chance of stopping - talk to your GP or pharmacist

Write down all the reasons you want to stop and stick it on the fridge to help you stay motivated

Talk to your friends, family and workmates - support from them is essential - why not quit together and keep each other motivated?

No Smoking Day is in its 26th year and is a registered charity supported by an alliance of the UK's health promotion agencies and major health charities

For more information about the campaign go to http://www.nosmokingday.org.uk

No Smoking Day