How To Quit Smoking For Kids

Young people often start smoking to fit in with friends or stay thin, without realizing the habit can lead to serious health conditions like emphysema or cancer. A commitment to putting smoking in the past can improve overall well-being and doesn't have to mean losing friends or gaining weight. Raise your chance to quit smoking successfully by following some proven tips.

Step 1

Designate the special day. Your smoke-free life begins when you pick a date in the near future as your quit day, or the last day you will smoke. Designating a firm date --- such as a birthday or a Saturday when you don't have school --- gives you time to plan and prepare for your new life.

Step 2

Spread the good news. Alerting your friends and family to your plans reduces the likelihood of people smoking in your presence or asking you to join them for a cigarette.

Step 3

Smoke less. Aim to reduce the number of cigarettes you smoke each day in the time leading up to your quit date. The reduction will lower the amount of nicotine in your body and can lessen the severity of your withdrawal symptoms.

Step 4

Remove temptation. Raise your chance to quit smoking successfully by cleaning your bedroom, car and locker of any smoking paraphernalia, including lighters, matches or cigarettes.

Step 5

Call in support. Your school may have a stop-smoking group that can provide encouragement and advice during your withdrawal. The local American Lung Association can also provide support, as well as a friend who has successfully quit smoking.

Step 6

Buy a notebook. Write down the reasons you want to quit smoking and use the list for encouragement when you have the urge to reach for a pack of cigarettes.

Step 7

Visit the drugstore. Healthy cigarette substitutes that can keep your mouth busy include sugar-free gum, straws and toothpicks, as well as celery, carrots and hard candy.

Step 8

Exercise often. Stay busy by walking, swimming, bicycling or strength training at the gym and keep plenty of water nearby to lower your chance for dehydration.

Step 9

Plan for peer pressure. Practice saying no to cigarettes in advance of your quit day to build up your willpower. Accepting even one cigarette can potentially lead to a relapse.

Step 10

Celebrate your healthy efforts. Use the money you previously spent to smoke by rewarding yourself with something special, such as a concert ticket or new pair of shoes.

Tips and Warnings

Doctors often recommend prescription medications, including nicotine patches, to make the path to a smoke-free life less challenging. Ask your parents if scheduling a visit with your family physician to discuss medication is feasible, as you'll likely need to begin using the products prior to your quit date.
Although many kids start smoking to look older, smoking brings adult changes to your appearance you may not want --- including premature wrinkles and aging.

Things You'll Need

Notebook
Sugar-free gum
Bottled water

How to Quit Smoking for Kids