After all our nagging we do understand that smoking is a personal choice. Everyone knows the health benefits to quitting (if you don't click here). Everyone knows that it will save money (if you want to know how much you are spending click here).

Eventually you will want to stop and we are here to help you when you do. We would like you to quit ASAP as we know that it will change your life but although we will provide you with the tools to do so all the hard work is down to you! There are some good tips from several websites such as the Quit smoking website to help you prepare for stopping (the links in the 10 points below go to this website):

1. Start with some pre-preparation by ensuring that you really do want to quit smoking cigarettes and understanding why you smoke. Are these reasons powerful enough to motivate you when you are faced with those tricky situations? Write down your reasons for quitting. You may want to take a look at some of the benefits of quitting.

2. Set yourself a date for quitting. Try and choose a date that will be stress free but when you can find plenty to do to keep yourself busy. Try and set a date within about two weeks of reading this.

3. Ask us for advice and decide whether you would like nicotine replacement. Nictoine is far cheaper on prescription! There are also newer drugs such as Champix for those who have tried and failed with nicotine. There are some rare and serious side effects of this drug so the nurses may want to speak to your GP before prescribing it.

4. Consider finding yourself a quitting partner relatives, work colleagues and friends are a good place to start. Set a date to quit together and you will be able to give each other support.

5. Tell your family and friends about your intentions. Ask them for their support before you quit and explain that you may not be yourself while experiencing withdrawal. When you reach your quitting date rely on those that have been most encouraging for support.

6. Think about starting an exercise program and a sensible eating plan. Again speak to our nurses. Exercise will give you more energy and help you to relax and relieve stress.

7. You should know what triggers your desire for a cigarette, such as stress, the end of a meal, drinking in a bar, etc. Avoid these triggers while you are trying to quit or if that's  not possible, decide how you will deal with the triggers.

8. Decide what you will do when you experience cravings. As we've discussed deep breathing, a short walk and keeping you self busy will help to take your mind off the cravings. Perhaps you can think of other ways. Write them down. Remember these cravings will only last for 3-5 minutes at a time.

9. If you have tried quitting before maybe you came across a stumbling block which we have discussed such as finding something to do with your hands. If so, you need to arm yourself with a solution to these foreseeable problems. Get yourself a pen, or stress relief aid to fiddle with, if occupying your hands is a problem.

10. Be positive and confident you can quit. You have spent time and energy planning how you will deal with the task ahead by following our tips for giving up smoking. Believe you can and you will do it if you persevere.

You can access further information from the NHS here to prepare yourself for seeing the nurse. We look forward to seeing you soon!