Tobacco use is a widespread problem across the United States and the world contributing to many health issues. In an effort to raise awareness, encourage people to quit their tobacco use, and deter youth from starting, Kick Butts Day was created. This year it will be celebrated on March 16, 2016.
Nicotine is highly addictive and smoking can be detrimental to your health. Not only does it affect your skin, eyes and teeth, it puts stress on your heart and lungs. Smoking can also increase your risk of developing several types of cancer. Tobacco use accounts for approximately 480,000 deaths every year in the United States. While you are in treatment for drug or alcohol addiction, it can also be beneficial to quit smoking as well.
Benefits of Quitting Smoking
Stopping tobacco use can benefit both your health and your recovery. In addiction treatment, you learn to curb cravings and temptation by engaging in healthy activities such as exercise, meditation and hobbies. By quitting smoking as well, this is one less unhealthy activity you will be engaging in and you will not be tempted to smoke even more as a way to maintain sobriety. Quitting smoking has many benefits:
- Even after just one day of not smoking, your risk of having a heart attack decreases. In addition, your blood pressure and heart rate are lowered as well.
- Shortness of breath improves and you develop higher stamina during physical activity.
- You prevent emphysema if you quit before it has developed.
- Quitting smoking can decrease risk of diabetes and help manage blood sugar.
- Your immune system will become stronger helping you to fight off illness and infection.
- You will improve the availability and flow of oxygen throughout your body.
Kicking tobacco is just one more goal that you can cross off your list as you strive to create a healthier lifestyle in recovery. It can give you more motivation and confidence in your ability to remain substance-free and boost your health so you feel stronger and more energized. If you struggle with tobacco use in addition to addiction, a professional treatment program can help you kick both.
[cta]Tell us how your life has changed for the better since quitting tobacco.[/cta]