Stoptober is back, and we’re calling on the 4.4 million people in England who still smoke to join millions of others who have quit successfully with the campaign.
Smoking remains the biggest cause of preventable illness and death, and quitting is one of the best things you can do for your health. The good news is that if you stop smoking for 28 days, you’re five times more likely to quit for good.
Many people think smoking helps them cope with stress, but evidence shows that quitting smoking can improve mental wellbeing, lift your mood and reduce anxiety. This Stoptober, we’re encouraging people to escape the cycle of stress and smoking, and discover the benefits of a smoke free life.
Quitting smoking doesn’t just improve your own health and wellbeing: when you quit, your family wins too. Whether it’s being there for loved ones, protecting them from second-hand smoke or simply having more money to spend on the things that matter, stopping smoking can have a positive impact on those around you.
It’s never too late to quit, even if you’ve tried before. Every attempt to quit counts, and with the right support, you’re more likely to succeed. If your quit didn’t go to plan, don’t worry – people can make many attempts before quitting for good, and Stoptober is a great time to give it another go. It’s much easier to stop smoking when you get the right help, and there’s a wide range of free quit smoking support available, including the NHS Quit Smoking app, Personal Quit Plan and expert help from local stop smoking services. You’ll also find advice on quitting aids such as nicotine replacement therapies and vaping at nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smoking, to help you find the support that’s right for you.