Each new year brings hopes of enjoying a healthier, happier lifestyle.
However, some resolutions are harder to keep than others. Quitting smoking is near the top on that list.
Yet many still have difficulty totally letting go, despite being aware of the health risks and consequences.
So what is stopping students from quitting?
There’s no single answer, but what is for sure is that smoking is an associated behavior.
According to Associate Dean of Students Gina Firth, this is a big part of the reason why many people have trouble quitting.
“What you need to do is figure out your associated behavior,” Firth said. “Inventory yourself the next time you pick up a cigarette. The solution depends on the individual. Everyone has different habits, a different level of addiction, and different triggers.”
Firth suggested several solutions for those looking to quit.
One suggestion was that a student should tell everyone they know that they plan to quit; Firth said this will build support and strengthen the student’s personal obligation.
Students looking to quit can also substitute things like lollipops for the oral and physical fixation.
Of course, these tips are just a small sampling of the smoking resources available on campus.
Firth is also the coordinator of the Wellness Program on campus, and is working on S.T.Q.P., or the “Spartan Tobacco Quit Program,” for the spring semester.
The program should kick off around the beginning of February.
For those who prefer to quit on their own, Firth mentioned that she would be more than happy to work with individuals as well.
Interested students can contact her anytime via her e-mail, gfirth@ut.edu.
Interestingly, a recent study by the National Survey on Drug Use and Health showed that nicotine dependence can be associated with increased risk of alcohol and illicit drug use.
The study also showed that those who are nicotine dependent are twice as likely to suffer from mental disorders such as depression or other types of serious psychological distress.