For those wishing to end their social smoking habit, summer can be a time fraught with temptation. From barbeques, to rooftop parties and picnics in the park, what was once repulsive becomes appealing with the impetus of a few drinks, friends and good cheer. If you’re a part-time puffer, following these IDEAL tips on avoiding social smoking this summer could be the boost you need to quit.
FACE THE FACTS
Do you think social smoking is a relatively harmless indulgence? Do you say to yourself one cigarette every now and again won’t hurt? Stop fooling yourself. Even if you only have the odd puff after a few drinks you’re still doing damage to your body. Intermittent smoking still increases the risk of heart disease, lung cancer and host of other conditions that you don’t need.
GET MORAL SUPPORT
Get your mates on side. Tell people that you’re done with social smoking and implore them to execute some tough love if you ask for a ‘drag on a ciggy’ after a few drinks. If your friends are incapable of this small but important request, get new ones.
USE SMOKING AIDS
From patches to mints and even chewing gum, there are a variety of aids available which assist in quelling your urge to smoke. If you resistance is futile, consider vaping. Ongoing research suggests that it’s far less harmful than smoking, and it won’t make you smell of tobacco and tar. We’ve all woken up the morning after spending the previous night in a fog of cigarettes. The smell increases your hangover tenfold – so why did it seem a good idea at the time?
ASK YOURSELF SOME IMPORTANT QUESTIONS
Really think about why you need to smoke socially. Getting the bare bones of it can highlight just how silly and detrimental it is. Do you really enjoy it? What are you getting out of it? The answer will inevitably not be in the affirmative, and sometimes this reality check is all you really need.
