Expert: Michael Dean - 1/30/2009

Question
Hey Michael,
right now im 16 and im in a stage of smoking where im not addicted in the way im craving cigarettes all the time, i only smoke when im angry, when im really stressed or having fun with friends which means ill smoke about 5-6 a month in a bad month.
My problem right now is that im looking for a way to stop before i become properly addicted without loosing out on my social life and without involving my parents. quite a few of my friends smoke and im always tempted by that. are there any methods that you know of that I can use to mentally tell myself thst I don't need this and I can go without.
Thanks

Answer
Dear Gaz,

You are very smart to want to quit now while the problem is not bad. There is very good data that the younger you become addicted, the worse it is to quit. I agree with doing this with will power for now.

I'd suggest you read "The EasyWay to Quit Smoking" by Allen Carr. He explains how smoking has no positive benefit in your life and the many advantages of quitting. The book has been a best seller in Europe for many years, and you might find it useful. If you live in the US you should also call 1-800-QUIT-Now and find out about resources in your state. Some states provide free therapy and telephone quitlines, and these are useful.

You cold use nicotine gum, it is better than smoking, but I worry that you will get more nicotine dependent.

It is good to learn how to deal with stress and anger now:

Here is a good place to start:
http://www.helpguide.org/mental/stress_management_relief_coping.htm

I know peer pressure is tough. But try explaining to your friends that you are quitting. If they are true friends they will be supportive. I would talk to them one-on-one. I bet some of them want to quit too, if they are honest.

Good luck, and let me know how this goes,

Michael

Michael Dean, Ph.D.
Author "Empty Cribs-The Impact of Smoking on Child Health"
http//www.artsciencepub.com