Quit Smoking Advisory

Stop smoking programs are very helpful for the smoker who has long decided to quit or at least have been thinking about it for some time. The reason that they exist is that the typical method of willpower simply does not work, and many people therefore need the extra help of a real program designed to help them quit.

So, what should you look for in a good stop smoking program? What will give you the greatest chance of quitting? Let’s take a look at some of the typical programs that are found today on the market.

Hypnosis Programs

There are a number of hypnosis programs out there which are quite popular. Of course, you could just go and visit your local hypnotist and get the same result but it would probably cost you more and be just as effective.

These programs are usually in the form of an mp3 download so you can listen to them in the privacy and convenience of your own home. Several years ago you would rely on a CD or even a tape being sent to you in the mail which would take several days to arrive. However, these days, an mp3 download will allow you to start the program as soon as you have paid for it!

These programs use a form of self-hypnosis which does not place you into as deep a trance as regular hypnosis. Nevertheless, they are purported to be effective.

NRT Programs

These are also a very popular way to quit smoking. With these, you buy gum or patches to replace cigarettes. They work as a substitute for cigarettes because they contain nicotine so the idea is that you can stop smoking and switch to these nicotine replacement products.

The manufacturers provide a program that you can follow or you can speak with your doctor who will advise you. Typically, most people will cut down little by little over a period of around 8 weeks. By the end, your nicotine intake will be equivalent to less than very low tar cigarettes and quitting is supposed to be much easier and less stressful, with less cravings and willpower needed.

Other Programs

There are other programs that are less well known but available to you. For instance, a Chinese herbalist should be able to recommend someone who can perform accupressure to help you lose the cravings. Antidepressant drugs such as Zyban are also known to help reduce cravings, especially if combined with therapies such as NRT.

Do They Work?

Whilst the manufacturers and the lobbyists would have you believe that these methods work, this is sadly far from the truth. Independent studies have shown that methods that prevent cravings such as hypnosis, accupressure and the quit smoking laser only work temporarily. These methods are not intended to be used for the long term so, while the cravings will disappear at first and make quitting easier, within a few months their effects will disappear and the cravings will come back. You might think that they are still worth it anyway - I would advise you to look at the independent research and look at some of the other articles on this site where I have done this - the facts are that after 6 months of quitting, these methods of preventing cravings temporary are no better than willpower alone. I advise that you don’t waste your times on these programs.

As for NRT, this is a huge business and moneyspinner for the drug companies - often NRT costs more than cigarettes do! If you are addicted to nicotine then do you think it makes sense to switch one form of nicotine to another? Sure, NRT might not contain the tar of cigarettes but you are still hooked, albeit on something even more expensive!

Is There Another Way?

I used to smoke myself over a pack a day but have not smoked a cigarette now in 8 years. And what’s more, I did it using a lesser known method that does not require pills, patches, injections or lasers AND does not require willpower or give you cravings. If you think this sounds too good to be true then keep using the traditional methods that the establishment wants you to and stay hooked forever. But if you’re interested in my offer of help, then click here to find out more.