Chances are, many of are getting ready for your quit date this weekend. That’s because Ash Wednesday in Ireland has a new tradition: It’s a quit day for so many people.

You already know that quitting smoking is one of the best things that you can do for your short-term and long-term health, and the health of those around you.

It doesn’t make it easy. In fact, it’s one of the hardest things to do. So if you have tried and failed before, that’s okay. It is still worth trying again.

There are lots of supports out there. Start with your GP and/or free resources from Quit.ie website.

So you want the #FactsNotFears about what works and what doesn’t and what’s a bad idea:

What works? Qualified counselling, family/friend support, nicotine replacement therapy (patches/gum/spray). Online or real-life support groups. Doctors can help as well: Short-term prescription tablets are a good choice for some and can really help. So an certain lifestyle medicine strategies. You can start with your GP or a doc like me.

What quit strategies to avoid for best long-term success and healthy outcomes? Hypnosis and vaping.

Have more questions on quitting smoking? Send them in and I’ll post on them in the next few days.