There are a variety of stop smoking aids so each person can find an option that works best for him or her. Acupuncture and hypnosis are two drug-free ways of approaching the difficult task of quitting smoking. The nicotine patch and gum are stop smoking aids that gradually allow a smoker to withdraw from the addicting habit.
Acupuncture is when a licensed acupuncturist inserts the tips of needles into various points on the skin. This may not be the best option for someone who is severely afraid of needles, although some people say they can barely feel the process. Several sessions are typically necessary for the acupuncture to have full effect.
Hypnosis is one of the stop smoking aids some may have a difficult time believing could work although many have had success with it. The smoker is put into an altered frame of mind and, through the power of suggestion, may no longer have the desire or need to smoke. It may take one or more sessions depending on the individual and the hypnotist.
The patch is one of the stop smoking aids that releases a certain amount of nicotine into the body at a slower pace and at a less amount than cigarettes. The patch is either clear or opaque and adheres to the skin. It helps to gradually get the person off of cigarettes and reduce the withdrawal symptoms. Typically it has to be replaced once per day with a fresh patch.
Nicotine gum is another one of the stop smoking aids that releases a certain amount of nicotine into the body that is less than what cigarettes provide. There is a dosage schedule to follow, having a piece every certain amount of hours. There is also a specific strength to take depending on how many cigarettes per day the smoker goes through.
Quitting smoking is better for the health of the smoker as well as family and friends who are close by when secondhand smoke is present. It also helps to save a substantial amount of money. Even though stop smoking aids can help with quitting, the most important tool to have in the arsenal is willpower. The commitment to finally put down the cigarettes for good is what is going to be the biggest help to push forward through the withdrawal symptoms and the cravings.