Kicking Butts: Quit Smoking and Take Charge of Your Health » (Second edition)

The American Cancer Society is an organization committed to fighting cancer through balanced programs of research, education, patient service, advocacy, and rehabilitation. Its goals emphasize prevention, early detection, and screening; comprehensive treatment information; answers to questions about insurance, money, and planning for the future; and strategies for coping with the physical symptoms and emotional effects of cancer. They are based in Atlanta.

Offering straightforward and highly effective techniques for those committed to quit smoking, this book explains how to get it done and provides reliable solutions to a life-changing choice. Leading the reader through a program to say goodbye to smoking forever—providing tips, suggestions, and solid support when it's most needed—this updated new edition presents the latest information about over-the-counter and prescription smoking-cessation products and methods, including how they work, what the benefits are, and possible side effects. Each chapter contains checklists for making a plan to quit, identifying and avoiding smoking triggers, and handling cravings, while practical methods for dealing with stress, depression, and concerns about weight gain are also included.

Introduction 1

Chapter 1 Facing the Challenges of Quitting 7

Yes, You Can Do It 8

Nicotine Is a Drug 8

Leaning on Nicotine 13

The Benefits of Your Doubts 15

Quit Smoking for Good 16

Chapter 2 How to Quit: It's Up to You 29

Talk to the Professionals 30

Don't Chicken Out: Go Cold Turkey 30

Never Fear, Medications Are Here 30

Which Type of Nicotine Replacement May Be Right for You? 38

Other Drugs Not FDA Approved for Helping Smokers Quit 46

Other Methods of Quitting 48

Other Nicotine and Tobacco Products Not Reviewed or Approved by the FDA 51

Support Keeps You Going Strong 53

Your Quitting Plan 59

Chapter 3 Countdown to Quitting 61

Change Your Mind About Smoking 61

Cope Without a Smoke 62

Get Ready for Quit Day 67

Chapter 4 Quit Day 79

Put Your Plans into Action 79

Get Over Smoking 84

Pump Up Your Motivation 88

Treat Yourself 94

Chapter 5 Your Smoke-Free Life 95

The Habit of Not Smoking 96

Chart Your Progress 103

A Helping Hand 109

Resource Guide 111

Glossary 117

Index 123