Why Quit Now?
Taking the leap to quit smoking or vaping at the start of a new year is a powerful step toward better health. National Non-Smoking week is the third week of January every year; a week of celebration and support for people looking to quit. Even if you didn’t kick off January 1 with this resolution, starting now is still meaningful. Here’s why:
- Immediate Health Benefits: Within minutes of quitting, your body begins to repair itself. Blood pressure and heart rate normalize, and within weeks, lung function and circulation improve dramatically. The sooner you start, the faster your body begins to heal.
- Long-Term Rewards: Quitting smoking / vaping reduces your risk of heart disease, stroke, lung cancer, and many other illnesses. Quitting reduces exposure to harmful chemicals and improves your overall lung health.
- Financial Savings: Think of the money spent on cigarettes or vaping products. Quitting means freeing up those funds for more rewarding pursuits—savings that could transform your year.
- Setting an Example: Quitting demonstrates strength and resilience, inspiring family, friends, and young people around you to make healthier choices.
How to Make a Fresh Start
- Identify Your Motivation
Take a moment to think about why you want to quit. It could be your health, family, finances, or freedom from dependency. Keep these reasons at the forefront of your journey. - Get Support
Quitting is easier with help. In New Brunswick, you can access free resources like:- Smoke-Free NB: Live chat, a quit-line (1-866-366-3667), and support programs tailored to your needs.
- The Quash App: A free app to help you track progress, manage withdrawal, and celebrate successes along the way.
- Live Well | Bien Vivre: Coaching services to provide encouragement and guidance on your quit journey.
- Smoke Free Curious: Provides free Nicotine Replacement Therapies and monthly draws of cash prizes for people who have used their services and quit smoking.
- Prepare for Challenges
Cravings are normal but temporary. Stay prepared by using these strategies:- Drink water.
- Practice deep breathing to stay calm.
- Delay giving in to cravings—they typically last just a few minutes.
- Distract yourself with activities you enjoy or call someone who can provide support.
- Celebrate Milestones
Every day you stay smoke-free is a victory. Reward yourself with a treat or activity as you hit significant milestones to keep your momentum.
It’s Never Too Late
Quitting smoking or vaping is one of the best decisions you can make, regardless of when you start. National Non-Smoking Week is a great time to take your first steps or recommit to your goal if you’ve had setbacks. Every effort you make toward a smoke-free life matters, and support is always available.
Let’s make 2025 your year for better health, greater happiness, and new possibilities. Ready to quit? Start today and give yourself the gift of a brighter, healthier future.
Visit NB Lung, Smoke-Free NB, or SmokeFreeCurious, or Quash for tools, resources, and support to help you on your journey.
Your future self will thank you!