Top ten tips to stop smoking during Stoptober

New Stoptober campaign to help people kick the habit Credit: PA

An addiction expert from Nottingham Trent University, Professor Mark Griffiths, has given his top ten tips to help people taking part in the Stoptober challenge, a new campaign which challenges smokers to quit for a month.

According to the government's principle medical adviser, Chief Medical Officer Professor Dame Sally Davies, research shows that people who stop smoking for 28 days are five times more likely to stay smoke-free.

The Department of Health said that smoking is the biggest cause of premature death in England and accounts for over 100,000 deaths in the UK each year.

One in two long-term smokers will die from a smoking-related disease.

Top Ten Tips

  • Smokers should be clear on the reason they want to quit.

  • Quitters should use the emotional support available to them.

  • Seek advice from healthcare professionals.

  • Those who are planning to stop smoking should avoid going cold turkey.

  • Non-nicotine cigarette shaped substitutes should be used.

  • Relaxation techniques can also be helpful.

  • Those attempting Stoptober should use the money they save not buying cigarettes to treat themselves.

  • Quitters need to "focus on the positive"

  • Smokers should know what triggers them to reach for a cigarette.

  • Find an activity to "fill the void"