Stopping smoking is one of the best choices you can make for your health, and it’s never too late to decide to quit.
Whether you’ve tried it before, been considering it for a while, or want to take part in Stoptober, you can join thousands of people across the UK quitting smoking this month.
Steven Westcough, Head of Health, Safety and Wellbeing at Teesside University, highlights the key benefits of quitting smoking for good this Stoptober…
Physical health
When you smoke, your body is exposed to thousands of harmful chemicals, many of which are toxic.
By quitting, studies have shown that blood circulation to the heart and muscles will improve, making physical activity easier. Your lung function will also be better, helping reduce coughing, wheezing, and other breathing issues.
Appearance
Smoking can cause premature wrinkles as the chemicals in cigarette smoke damage collagen and elastin, which are key elements that keep your skin looking bright and youthful. Additionally, nicotine found in cigarettes can cause narrowing of the blood vessels, meaning less oxygen and nutrients can get to your skin.
Quitting won’t make wrinkles disappear, but it can prevent further early aging. You may also notice your skin becoming brighter and smoother as more oxygen and nutrients reach it.
Mental health
Quitting smoking improves mental health and overall wellbeing. According to the NHS, evidence shows that after the initial withdrawal phase, people experience reduced anxiety, depression, and stress. Those who quit also report a more positive mood compared to those who continue smoking.
Extra cash
Quitting smoking can make you wealthier in more ways than one! Rather than spending money on cigarettes, you can put it towards growing your savings, paying off bills, or treating yourself to new clothes or a trip away.
Use this handy tool to work out just how much you could save by stopping smoking.
Protecting others
Passive smoking is harmful and it can cause many of the same health effects as smoking does.
The only way to protect your loved ones from second hand smoke is to keep the environment around them smoke free, and the best way to do that is to quit smoking completely.
Stopping smoking can be challenging, but there are ways to minimise second hand smoke exposure while working toward quitting. Always smoke outside and away from the home, and never smoke inside a vehicle.
With the right support and professional guidance, you’re three times more likely to quit smoking for good. Find your local Stop Smoking Service here.
The NHS Quit Smoking app is a 28 day programme that puts practical support, encouragement, and tailored clinical advice in the palm of your hand. Download it here.
Teesside University has a No Smoking Policy which supports the aim of a smoke-free campus. The policy aims to provide a healthy working environment and protect the health of employees, students, and visitors to the University by raising awareness of the dangers associated with exposure to tobacco smoke.
Further details of our No Smoking Campus can be found here including information on the stop smoking services available.
References & resources
5 visible benefits of quitting smoking
Stopping smoking for your mental health