Ashlee Nederhood, Dipl. Acu.
Smoking Cessation
As we know, smoking is a strong, complicated addiction and to quit is no small task. During the first few days of nicotine withdrawal it is common to experience irritability, anxiety, stress, anger, jitters, headache, pain, and depression. Due to the intensity of these side effects, it makes quitting seem almost impossible and it’s during this period when many people return to smoking.
Studies have shown that acupuncture can be helpful in reducing cravings, anxiety, and stress levels during this difficult period. It helps to detoxify and restore balance within the body and jumpstart the natural healing process. It stimulates the body to release endorphins “the feel good hormones” to produce an overall state of relaxation. It is important to understand that although acupuncture can help the body with the internal physical aspects of the withdrawal there are many external factors that may need to be addressed as well.
It is important that the patient take steps before treatment to help them be most successful such as identifying and developing a plan to deal with triggers, finding healthy activities to distract the mind during the transition, disposing of all nicotine products and residual smoke from the home, car, or work areas. Increasing the amount of cigarettes you are smoking before you quit is not recommended because it can make the cravings worse. If the patient is not willing and eager to make the proper lifestyle changes their success will be greatly decreased.
It can often take support from family, friends, support groups, physicians, and other health care professionals to help one individual successfully quit smoking. Research indicates that education and physical, emotional, social, and medical support are key factors in the success of smoking cessation.
Typical treatment for smoking cessation requires two treatments as close together as possible preferably one on the evening of your quit date and the second on the following morning or within 24 hours. Therefore, it is best that we talk by phone prior to treatment to schedule the two appointments. Actual treatment time is about 30 minutes but allow time to discuss your individual cessation plan and how we can make you most successful. The effects of acupuncture usually last 24-48 hours which should get you through the first few most challenging days. It is recommended that if you feel the urge to start again that you receive another treatment (booster) before starting back up. Some people need a few boosters and some do not.
It should be understood that each person, addiction, withdrawal, and recovery period is unique so therefore one must keep an open mind and work with yourself during this transition. Keep in mind this was not a habit that was started overnight so therefore it may not be reversed overnight. Be kind to yourself and most importantly don’t quit trying.