How Devon Residents Can Quit Smoking

Quitting smoking is not easy. However, there are several ways and plenty of help available to residents in Devon.

Despite records for those smoking falling to their lowest levels across the UK, a survey in 2024 showed the number of those smoking in Devon was rising. This included people from Torridge, North Devon, West Devon, Plymouth and Cornwall, though figures elsewhere in the South West showed a decline. These figures from the Office for National Statistics were worrying for the local health authorities. If you are one of the people in Devon hoping to quit, then there are plenty of ways residents can do it.

Getting Help in Devon

The main service to help people quit smoking in Devon was launched in 2023. It is named Stop for Life Devon, and provides specialist help and products. These include nicotine replacement goods and e-cigarettes. It has also provided specialist training to support individuals in the community and those in large workplaces. There are, however, three different services spread across the region; these are Devon County Council, Torbay Council and Plymouth Council.  

Behind this and other initiatives has been ICE. They are a company that is a UK leader in positive behaviour change. They do this through a range of ways, including culture, design, lifestyles, insight, social and creative sections. Not only have they worked with NHS Devon, but they have also had successful campaigns with This Mum Can and eConsult Devon.

Popular Methods to Stop Smoking

There are several methods you may choose to stop smoking. However, you should always combine these with solid advice. Discuss it with your doctor first, then reach out to one of Devon’s support or help groups.

NRT

Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) aims to replace the nicotine, which causes addiction to smoking. It does this by giving you it in alternative ways: Patches, gums, sprays, inhalers, and tablets. Many of these can be bought over the counter and don’t require a prescription.

By introducing a smaller amount of nicotine into the bloodstream using these methods, you reduce nicotine withdrawal symptoms. It also cancels out the harmful toxins you inhale through cigarette smoke and vapes.

Using E-Cigarettes

E-cigarettes, also known as vapes, are a popular method people use to quit smoking. Not only do they replace the nicotine fix, but they also provide something that you can physically do with your hands, which is often overlooked. This makes it more of a physical response replacement.

Another bonus is that vapes are now easier than ever to access. You can find some of the best vape kits UK available online with quick delivery through online vape stores like Ecigone. The range of flavours and pods can also be very interesting, and smell much better than acrid tobacco smoke.

There is still a lot of research to be done on the health benefits of vapes, so consult your doctor. Many services will not recommend them as an immediate treatment, but they are a choice made by many.

Cutting Out or Cutting Back

If you have the willpower to do it, then completely cutting out is the best way. It helps if you can avoid situations where people are smoking, along with finding support from friends and family. You may also want to find other things to do that will distract you. It may result in some mood swings, but the immediate health benefits will be more than worth it. Remember that if you can do 28 days smoke-free, then you are five times more likely to quit for good.

For those who just can't cut out completely, then cutting down is a start. It is also a good method if you know you can't cut out completely and right away. Try to slowly reduce the number of cigarettes you have each day, and increase the length of time between each one. Try to leave your cigarettes at home before you go out.

National Schemes to Stop Smoking

The NHS runs a Stoptober event, in which they get people across the United Kingdom to quit. This can be a great time to quit, as there are lots of helpful guides and support on offer.

A dedicated NHS quit smoking app is available. It will connect you to others and their stories, providing a social context for quitting. You can also create a personal 8-step quit plan through the NHS app. It has handy hints, like when to set your quitting date and how much money you can save. All of this provides valuable incentives to keep you smoke-free.

There has never been a better time to quit smoking. The health benefits will be immediate, felt from a pulse reduction at 20 minutes after, to an improvement in breathing 9 months later. Use the tools at your disposal and get ready for a healthy, smoke-free future in Devon.