Stop smoking this Stoptober with free local support
This October, smokers across South and West Yorkshire are being encouraged to take on the Stoptober challenge and take the first step towards becoming smokefree.
The national campaign supports people to quit smoking for 28 days, with research showing that those who successfully stop for this period are five times more likely to quit for good. Since Stoptober launched, more than 2.5 million people have used the campaign to start their quit journey, leading to life-changing improvements in their health, wellbeing, and finances.
The benefits of stopping smoking begin almost immediately. Within 20 minutes, pulse rate starts to return to normal. Within days, carbon monoxide and nicotine leave the body, oxygen levels improve and senses of taste and smell can become sharper. Over time, breathing becomes easier, circulation improves and the risk of serious health conditions, including heart disease, is significantly reduced.
People across South and West Yorkshire can access free, personalised support from Yorkshire Smokefree and the QUIT Team in Barnsley. Specialist advisers can provide practical advice and access to stop smoking treatments to help people successfully quit.
Professor Subha Thiyagesh, Chief Medical Officer at South West Yorkshire Partnership Teaching NHS Foundation Trust, said:
“Every successful quit attempt is a significant achievement and an investment in better health. We know smoking addiction can have a profound impact on physical and mental wellbeing, and that stopping can feel difficult without support.’’
“The important message this Stoptober is that help is available, and people are much more likely to succeed when they access evidence-based advice and practical support. I would encourage anyone who is thinking about quitting to take that first step and contact Yorkshire Smokefree or the QUIT Team.”
Whether you have tried to quit before or this is your first attempt, Stoptober could be the moment that changes everything.
For more information and support, contact Yorkshire Smokefree on 0330 660 1166 or the QUIT Team on 01226 644130 or email QUITBarnsley.OakwellUnit@swyt.nhs.uk.
