Creative Ways To Stop Smoking

“Use nicotine patches.” “Avoid stress triggers.” “Join a support group.” You’ve tried all the usual tips and tricks, but you still can’t quit. Perhaps it’s time to try something unconventional. For example, alcohol is a common trigger for cigarette cravings, according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. Consuming less alcohol may make it easier to quit. When combined with more traditional approaches, these outside-the-box ideas may help you quit once and for all.

Why have one accountability partner when you could have 500? Turn your social media followers into an entire accountability network by posting or tweeting how many cigarettes you have each day. Getting all those “likes” for a smoke-free day may not curb your cravings, but it will sure feel good. Social media is also a great channel for emotional support on difficult days. Seeing your friends light up your phone with encouraging messages can keep you from lighting up that cigarette.

A review of studies published in the American Journal of Medicine suggests the ancient Chinese healing art of acupuncture may be an effective cessation tool. The Academy of Classical Oriental Sciences suggests acupuncture — particularly on the ear — as a way to reduce cravings by stimulating the same brain receptors as nicotine. Acupuncture also reduces tension, which may help you control stress-related smoking urges.

A 2015 study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that financial incentives can play a powerful role for those attempting to quit. Put a portion of your paycheck at stake by “depositing” it with a trusted family member every month. If you successfully keep your cravings at bay for six months, you can “cash out” and use that money for a personal reward — say, a weekend getaway or a shopping spree.

Can vaping — using electronic cigarettes — help you ditch traditional cigarettes? One study published in the Lancet journal found that using e-cigarettes to quit smoking was slightly more effective than using nicotine patches. However, it’s important to understand that e-cigarettes contain nicotine in liquid form, which means you aren’t breaking your addiction by replacing smoking with vaping.

While vaping doesn’t cause lung damage the way inhaled smoke does, e-cigarettes may still contain toxic levels of cancer-causing chemicals. And as the American Lung Association points out, most smokers who use e-cigarettes don’t stop smoking traditional cigarettes.

If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to satisfy sudden urges, try citrus. Many smokers drink orange or lime juice to curb their cravings. Research from the National Center for Biotechnology Information has also found that smokers commonly report cigarettes tasting worse after eating fruit of any kind.

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