HEALTHY HOUNSLOW - STOP SMOKING
Frequently Asked Questions
What you need to know
Healthy Hounslow is packed with guidance and advice on how to live healthier, but here we have provided answers to some frequently asked questions. Please let us know if there is a question you would like the answer to that isn’t listed here.
How frequently will I attend?
You will need to attend weekly or fortnightly appointments for approximately 12 weeks.
How old do I need to be?
12 years and older. Young people between 12-16 years of age do not necessarily need to bring a parent or guardian, but we would recommend bringing someone along for extra support.
What are the types of stop-smoking treatments?
Using a stop-smoking treatment can support you in being successful in quitting smoking and other forms of tobacco by reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Treatment options include nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), Champix and Zyban (please note that Champix and Zyban are currently unavailable in the UK).
NRT only contains nicotine, so no chemicals or carbon monoxide like cigarettes do, and it’s important to remember that nicotine isn’t the harmful part of the cigarette, making NRT both safe and effective to use. NRT works by providing a small, controlled amount of nicotine to the brain, where it’s being craved. The amount of nicotine is reduced gradually over approximately 12 weeks when you stop the treatment.
Types of Nicotine Replacement Treatment include patches, gum, lozenges, mouth spray, inhalator and nasal spray.
Will I have to pay?
The Healthy Hounslow Stop Smoking service is FREE. It offers behavioural support as well as FREE Nicotine Replacement Therapy support for up to 12 weeks.
Stop smoking medications (Champix and Zyban) will have the usual prescription charge or these will be free if you do not pay for prescriptions.
Can I bring someone with me to my appointment?
YES!
Like anything in life, doing it together can sometimes be easier and more enjoyable. Nothing could be truer than quitting smoking. If you have decided to quit smoking while your partner or family member(s) continue to do so, this can make your quit attempt even harder with the temptation a little too close for comfort!
Main benefits of stopping together:
More support
Quitting together will enable you to support each other through the hard times and the extra support will help you along the way.
Double the savings
If you and your partner or family member(s) both smoke, you could save double the amount by kicking the habit together!
No second-hand smoke
If you both quit smoking, you will both benefit by not having to deal with the dangers or smell of second-hand smoke.
My partner is quitting smoking, how can I help?
Keep calm
Nicotine withdrawal can cause low mood & your partner might be more susceptible to low & changeable mood. Always remember it’s the withdrawal talking, not them!
Communication
Keeping communicating during the stop-smoking process, as it is very important and can help avoid conflict if both parties are clear about how they feel.
Offer distraction
Go to the movies (let them choose the show), take a walk, go for a meal out. There are many options to help your partner not think about smoking.
Celebrate
Celebrate their small achievements.
