Smoking,
Socialising and you
Lots of people smoke when they’re in a social situation. It’s convenient. Others are doing it. But how can you avoid picking up a cigarette?
How to avoid smoking when you’re socialising
Avoid sitting with smokers
It’s easy to get drawn into social smoking, so try and avoid sitting with groups of smokers. Second hand smoke is still dangerous and could tempt you.
Tell your friends
Get your friends to help you quit. They can keep you away from social smoking situations and make sure your smoking friends don’t offer you cigarettes.
Distract yourself
Keep yourself busy and entertained with other things when you’re socialising.
Stick to indoor, public places
It’s much easier to avoid smoking when you’re socialising with friends inside – like a bar or restaurant - where smoking isn’t allowed.
Have a plan
Before you go out, have an idea of what to do if you get a craving. Can your friends step in and distract you, or will that be when you decide to go home?
Use a quit smoking tool
One of the best ways to avoid picking up a cigarette when you’re out socialising is to use a quit smoking tool. See what works for you below.
Help someone you care about quit today
What are your next steps?
Which quit smoking tools work best when having a drink?
It’s best to give up alcohol completely for a few weeks when you first stop smoking. But if you are going to have a drink, using one or more quit smoking tools can help you stick to your plan and keep your cravings at bay.
E-cigarettes (vaping)
Using an e-cigarette can give you something to hold like a normal cigarette, which is great if you need to keep your hands busy and distracted.
Nicotine Gum
Chewing nicotine gum is a discrete way to keep your cravings at bay and is available in two different strengths to help with your addiction.
Nicotine Spray
Use nicotine spray for the fastest way to get nicotine into your blood stream. It’s great if you get sudden urge to smoke and need something quick.
Pescribed Medication
Champix and Zyban are tablets that you take regularly to prevent cravings. If you take them as prescribed, you shouldn’t feel like you want a cigarette.
Spend your money on something for you!
Stopping smoking won’t just make you feel better; the money you save can be spent on you! Treat yourself to new clothes or dinner at a great restaurant, a holiday, or a family day out. How much extra money will you have when you quit smoking?
In one week you could save
£38
That's new makeup or skincare product
or
For you gamers the latest game
In one month you could save
£154
That’s a fantastic dinner for two
or
New workout clothes
In six months you could save
£924
That's a week in the sun
or
A shopping spree
In one year you could save
£1,848
Treat yourself to that designer watch or jewellery
or
Start saving for something really special
In one week you could save
£70
That's a pair of designer shoes
or
A relaxing spa treatment
In one month you could save
£300
That’s a weekend in Europe, incl. flights
or
A new piece of tech
In six months you could save
£1,800
That’s a luxury holiday
or
A new luxury bed
In one year you could save
£3,650
That’s the deposit for a new car
or
A brand new kitchen
In one week you could save
£105
That’s your weekly food shop
or
An exciting experience day
In one month you could save
£450
That’s a night away in a luxury hotel
or
A new holiday wardrobe
In six months you could save
£2,700
That’s a trip to Orlando for a family of 4
or
Fly to NYC and spend a few days in the Big Apple
In one year you could save
£5,475
That’s an all-inclusive, month-long Caribbean cruise
or
A new and approved car
Help someone you care about quit today
What are your next steps?
There are many ways to stop smoking, find the one that works for you
You are more likely to quit smoking by mixing and matching personal support like motivational support from a health advisor with NRT or a prescription medication and e-cigarettes.
What would work best for you?
