2 October 2020

This month marks the annual Stoptober campaign which aims to help people to stop smoking.

Stopping smoking is one of the best things that a smoker can ever do for their health and there has never been a better time to quit smoking. When you stop smoking, you give your lungs the chance to repair and you will be able to breathe easier.

There are lots of other benefits to stopping smoking such as sleeping better, reducing the aging affects, improving your sense of smell and taste, saving money and protecting those around you from the dangers of second-hand smoke. At this time we also know that stopping could reduce the risks of serious symptoms if a person catches Covid-19.

Giving up smoking is not something you have to do on your own. Our Wellbeing Service delivers local support on behalf of Quit Your Way Scotland through trained advisers to help you quit by:

  • talking through all the options available to you
  • helping you plan to stop in a way that suits you
  • offering support when you're trying to stop

Fiona Doig, Head of Health Improvement at NHS Borders, said: “Just as your decision to stop smoking needs to be your choice, so does the way that you quit smoking. Our Wellbeing Service helps you to choose the way that’s right for you and increases your chances of quitting for good.

“You might be thinking of using a free treatment such as nicotine replacement therapy or other medications to support you or are looking into e-cigarettes. Whatever you decide, it helps to plan ahead and let us help you to quit your way. You are four times more likely to stop smoking and stay stopped with help and support from an NHS stop smoking service.

“We know how difficult it can be for people trying to quit and we understand that everyone needs different kinds of support, so the Wellbeing Services offers a range of options to suit individuals throughout the various stages of the process.”

Borders Quit Your Way is delivered by our Wellbeing Service. Find out more by contacting the Wellbeing Service on 01896 824502 or 0800 84 84 84 or visit here

Alternatively you can pop into your local pharmacy for free advice and support.