Write@Home
Winter 2015

Health

Quitting smoking - male hand crushing cigarette

A large number of smokers are aware that smoking is harmful for their health. Smoking has a negative impact on the health of the entire body. Many smokers, including myself are not persistent enough to quit smoking cigarettes. Sadly, many of us didn't know before that the nicotine and heroin crisis are almost equal. I wish I had known that many years ago back in the '80s.

I started smoking in teenage days and became addicted. I have never tried to stop because smoking is a powerful habit and is hard to resist.  Furthermore, I was an insecure teenager and I guess I wanted to be like my relatives and friends. Also, it was like an adventure because as a teenager I knew smoking was forbidden for my age.

When I was 18 my parents knew about my habit and they couldn't stop me. They both were smokers as well as my younger brother. Now, I smoke for other reasons and that might be stress or other problems. Cigarettes relaxed and sometimes gave me more energy to deal with everyday problems more easily. I know this is not true, but smoking tobacco brings that nice feeling of peace and relaxation, especially in stressful times. 

Although I’m not a strong person, many times I'm weak and depressed and also, I am addicted to tobacco. I'm not a good example of a successful woman but I achieved something that my parents didn't. I taught my children about the negative consequences of smoking tobacco. They are teenagers and they are against this habit.

Also, now I smoke less. Before I smoked 30 cigarettes daily, today I smoke four sometimes five cigarettes. As a matter of fact, I smoke outside, as I'm hiding from my family and other people.  This addiction does not feel like an adventure any more.  

Today, in the 21st century, smoking is less socially acceptable. Statistics show that smokers live approximately 15 years less than non smokers. I know that the strong will, decision and discipline are necessary to quit smoking. I hope that I will find other ways to fight stress.

In short, I'm getting ready to try to quit smoking tobacco and become a non smoker. Finally, my goal is to live a healthier and better life as long as possible and enjoy it with my family.