Why stop smoking?
Stopping smoking is one of the best things you can do for your physical and mental health.
It’s good for your body – it helps you breathe more easily, reduces your risk of cancer and heart disease, and gives you more energy. It can also help your mental wellbeing. Many people find they feel less anxious, sleep better and have more energy after quitting.
People quit for different reasons:
- To feel more in control
- To protect their children or loved ones
- To save money
- To feel calmer and more focused
- To look after their long-term health
Whatever your reason, it’s never too late to stop – and you don’t have to do it alone.
Smoking and mental health
Many people believe smoking helps with stress – but this is a myth. Here’s what’s really happening:
- Nicotine is addictive. When levels drop, you start to crave a cigarette.
- This craving can cause irritability, stress or low mood.
- Smoking briefly relieves the craving – but it’s the addiction that created the stress in the first place.
Quitting can actually improve your mental wellbeing.
People who stop often find:
- They feel less stressed and anxious
- They sleep better
- They can concentrate more easily
- They feel a sense of achievement
Even if you’re dealing with a mental health problem, you can quit smoking with the right support.