If you have ever tried to quit smoking before, you have probably asked yourself, “What is the best time to stop using these cigarettes?” If you have ever received responses to these inquiries, though, the chances are high that you have received different answers, only adding to the confusion. Some people may urge you to quit as soon as possible, while others will tell you to quit when your brain and body are ready. In the end, this leads to the ultimate question: is there a “good” time to stop smoking? Let’s take a closer look and find out the answer.
Just Give Me a Reason
Let’s face it. If we were to spend time taking notes on all the reasons why you should stop smoking cigarettes, we will be here all day. Nevertheless, it’s always a good idea to remind yourself of the numerous benefits of permanent abstinence from nicotine and tobacco chemicals. For example, by quitting smoking you are:
- Decreasing and possibly obliterating your risk for cancer and other dangerous health problems.
- Protecting yourself from premature aging and wrinkling.
- Finding a way to fix relationships that have been ruined or prevented due to your smoking.
What Dates Should I Avoid?
Always remember that you should never make a big, life-changing decision as you are about to take on a new challenge, particularly one that is extremely stressful. To quit smoking effectively, you must be highly focused on your goals, and you cannot afford to have additional distractions ransacking your brain. For example, you will not want to stop using cigarettes prior to:
- Marriages and anniversaries;
- Graduations;
- Midterm or final exams;
- Traumatic moments, such as the death of a friend or family member; or
- Any other stressful times.
Picking the Time to Quit
On the flip side, any date that you choose to quit smoking will always be a significant time for your life, one that you will remember forever (hopefully in a good way). After you have successfully quit, you can look back on this special day and think, “Yep. That was the day I became a better person and won the fight.” So what day should you pick? Here are some good options:
- Birthdays;
- New Year’s Day;
- World No Tobacco Day;
- Independence Day; or
- Great American Smokeout.
Seeking Treatment for Cigarette Use
Remember that addiction can be triggered by one shot of alcohol or a single puff of a cigarette, but the true danger of this sickness is that you cannot fully determine how much you have to consume before your mind forms an attachment. Social smoking is just as dangerous as chronic smoking, on many levels, but you do not have to smoke to have a good time. Remember, drugs cannot determine if you have fun and do not have control over your life.
If you are suffering from a severe case of drug abuse or addiction, or have a friend or loved one who is coping with this illness, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process of alcohol withdrawal and detox and guide you along the rocky road of rehabilitation. Soon enough, you will experience a faster and much more efficient recovery.
If you want to find out more about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can overcome your mental illness and take an extra step toward becoming a healthier person.
