Keep going this Stoptober!
Date Added: 20/10/2021
We're passed the midway point of Stoptober. Even if you haven't gone completely smoke free, it's still a good time to keep trying or start.
If you can make it to the 28-day mark without smoking, you are five times more likely to stay smoke-free for good.
If you’re trying to go smoke-free during October - or know someone who is - you may find a little boost of support helpful – and The Stop Smoking Team is here to help.
You are not alone
The urge to smoke can hit at any time so it is important to know that you can get support when you need it. Our Stop Smoking Service has over 60 years of experience helping people to quit smoking.
Contact the team:
There are plenty of ways you can get in touch to sign up for free support, without a doctor’s referral:
• Visit thestopsmokingservice.co.uk for full details and to self-refer.
• Phone on 0800 013 0553
• Email [email protected].
Other useful tools to help your quit
There are also a host of useful apps and tools to help you on your smoke free journey
• Download the “My Quit Route” free app (search “my quit route” on your device’s app store)
• Download the brand new and improved NHS Quit Smoking app for free
• Download the Self Help Guide from our website – for full tips, advice and information to support your whole programme. Make use of the smoking diary to monitor your progress
How can I help a friend who smokes?
If you know someone who is looking to stop smoking, here are some ways you can be a supportive friend.
Show them where they can get help:
• Share details of the Stoptober challenge
• Let friends/family know you support their decision to try going smoke free
• Signpost them to our free Stop Smoking Service. They can book a remote appointment by calling for free on 0800 013 0553 or visiting: https://www.thestopsmokingservice.co.uk/.
If you’re both smokers, perhaps try something new together as a distraction from smoking:
1. Start a new sport or hobby together
2. Join the gym or start exercising at home. Or maybe go for a steady walk
3. Go shopping together
4. Buy some healthy snacks together to replace that hand to mouth action?
5. Distract one another, with music or games
6. Just pick up the phone to each other (call, video call, message). Stay in touch to let each other know when you are struggling
7. If your friend is unavailable? Drop them a voice note, send them an email or even write them a letter!
If you both have busy schedules, you could even start a quit journal to write all your thoughts and ideas, and share these when you next get together.
How to help, without nagging
Be a good listener. Sometimes it’s nice to be able to talk about your difficulties without the feeling of judgement. Sometimes your mate will need uplifting, and enthusiasm. Show support by being there if they need you.