Every October, thousands of people across the UK take part in Stoptober, the nation's biggest stop smoking campaign. It's a chance to join a supportive community, set a quit date, and take the first step towards a healthier, happier future.
Whether you've tried to quit before or are considering it for the first time, Stoptober is the perfect opportunity to give it a go.
Did you know?
People are five times more likely to quit for good if they stay tobacco-free for at least 28 days.
That's why Stoptober focuses on helping people get through those first crucial weeks, building confidence and creating lasting habits that can lead to a smoke-free future.
Why Quit?
Stopping at any time or age brings great benefits for your health, wellbeing and quality of life. Many people notice positive changes much sooner than they expect:
20 minutes after quitting: Your heart rate and blood pressure begin to return to normal.
48 hours after quitting: Carbon monoxide is eliminated from the body, and your senses of taste and smell start to improve.
2 to 12 weeks after quitting: Circulation improves and your lungs begin to work more efficiently.
After one year: Your risk of heart disease is around half that of someone who continues to smoke.
But the benefits don't stop there. Quitting smoking can also help you:
Save money that can be spent on the things that matter most to you.
Feel more in control and less dependent on tobacco.
Protect the health of those around you.
Feel proud of achieving a positive lifestyle change.
Find your reason why
One of the most important steps in a successful quit attempt is understanding your personal motivation. Take a few moments to think about what's driving your decision:
Who am I quitting for?
Why do I want to quit?
Why is now the right time?
Your reasons are unique to you - keeping your "why" in mind can help you stay focused when challenges arise.
Support to help you quit
Quitting can be difficult, but you don't have to do it alone. People are up to four times more likely to quit successfully with support from a stop smoking service. At Reed Wellbeing, we have helped thousands of people stop smoking for good through personalised support, behavioural coaching and access to proven treatment options.
Top tips for a successful quit
If you're thinking about quitting this Stoptober, these simple tips can help:
Know your reason for quitting
Keep your motivation front and centre. Write down your reasons and revisit them regularly.
Commit to your quit date
Choose a date and stick to it. Follow the "not a single puff" rule and make a clear break from tobacco.
Change your routine
Identify habits or situations linked to smoking and consider new, healthier alternatives.
Plan for challenging moments
Think ahead about situations that may trigger cravings and how you'll manage them.
Use proven stop smoking aids
Nicotine replacement products, stop smoking medications and specialist support can significantly improve your chances of success. Speak to a stop smoking service or your GP about the options available.
Tell people about your quit attempt
Family, friends and colleagues can provide encouragement, understanding and support when you need it most.
Ready for the Challenge? Join the movement this stoptober
Let's quit smoking together this Stoptober.