NHS - SMOKEFREE STARTS

Everyone knows that smoking is bad for your physical health but what about the impact on your mental health?

Did you know stopping smoking can be as effective as antidepressants in reducing depression, anxiety and stress?

You might think that smoking provides relief from stress, anxiety and depression but the opposite is true.

Smoking can offer a temporary sense of relief but this soon gives way to unpleasant withdrawal symptoms.

When you haven’t had a cigarette for a while the craving can make you irritable and anxious, trapping you in a stress cycle which could be making daily life harder.

Smoking won’t get rid of stress, anxiety and low mood in the long-term. Stopping smoking is the first step to breaking the cycle.

If you struggle with your mental health, smoking could be  making it worse. By stopping smoking you could:

• Feel more positive, improve your mood, mental health and overall wellbeing.
• Lower levels of stress, irritability, anxiety and depression.
• Live a longer, healthier life doing more of what you enjoy.
• Reduce your monthly spend and become financially better off, saving at £2,500 in a year.

Smokers with mental health conditions can achieve the same success as those without.

The tar in tobacco smoke (not nicotine) alters the metabolism of some medicines for physical and mental health conditions. Speak to your prescriber before and during attempting to stop smoking so your medication can be monitored and adjusted as needed.

There is free local support available to help you quit smoking in a way that works for you. It is easier to quit with the right support.

The support available includes:

• Personalised quit plans
• Vape starter kits
• Free nicotine replacement therapy
• in-person or virtual check-ins
• Online group sessions

Get in touch today. Visit our website or contact us. smokefreestarts.co.uk