Action to motivate – November is now the smoke-free month

The blue haze and its harmful side effects have always been the subject of countless discussions. While the vice is indulged in front of countless bars, in the smoking courtyards and several other “nicotine hells”, many non-smoking associations in the country are concerned about a healthier future. Incidentally, the first of the month is ideally suited as a start to a smoke-free life and that is why the local health insurer (ÖGK) will start the new campaign against cigarettes and Co on November 1.

With its varied and wide range, the well-known “smoke-free telephone” also shows how long-term smoking cessation can be achieved. The counseling team there has been supporting people in the fight against addiction since 2006. What started small on World No Tobacco Day 16 years ago has grown into a healthy success story: the year before alone, the helpers held more than 5,000 information and advice sessions.

This year, the health psychologists are once again inviting you to free webinars for a flicker-free life. Those who want more intensive guidance can also discuss individual and motivational measures with the experts at a follow-up appointment: “Every day people want to take the step to stop smoking. Whether with the smoke-free app, with the brochures, the website or individual advice over the phone – this step is easier with help. By offering information on all channels, interested parties feel more confident to make contact and report their experiences with smoking,” explains director Sophie Meingassner.

With information and motivation to change your life
When it comes to the desire for change, those affected mainly focus on health, well-being and freedom from addiction, followed by aesthetic, material and social reasons. Who used to smoke a pack a day and smoked throughout November, will do without 600 cigarettes a month. This success is reflected in body, mind and wallet.

After a month, the physical withdrawal is largely over, relaxation techniques help and, moreover, savings were made: between 150 and 200 euros per month. If you start on the first of the month, you are more likely to start the new year smoke-free than if you had a New Year’s resolution.

Ex-smokers are convinced of their success
Nikolaus K., 32-year-old father from Lower Austria, ended his smoking career after more than ten years: “I’ve been toying with the idea of ​​quitting for several months. The birth of my daughter was the last step in the right direction. smoke-free app from ÖGK can also give you extra motivation,” explains the employee in an interview with “Krone”. About 19,200 people have downloaded the app on their smartphone to change their nicotine and tobacco consumption behavior. the coming cold season in the fall.

The substances in tobacco smoke are known to cause severe inflammatory reactions in the respiratory tract, irritate the bronchi and thus increase the susceptibility to infections. Smoking also damages the self-cleaning mechanism of the airways and can cause chronic coughing and mucus build-up.

The cold season is therefore the best time to strive for a sustainable lifestyle. “It doesn’t always have to be a devout New Year’s resolution or a birth to take care of your health care sooner or later,” the experts warn urgently.