You can stop smoking no matter how addicted you think you are, how long you have smoked for or how many times you have tried before, but you have to want to do it and do it right.

First give yourself time to prepare mentally before you stop smoking and get all the support you can from friends and family and decide on the method you are going to use to stop smoking.

However don't expect a miracle cure to help you stop smoking because they simple don't exist. If you decide to try nicotine replacement therapy in the form of the nicotine patch or gum then it is best to combine this method with a additional support program or advice.

The nicotine patch, one of the most popular quit smoking product is stuck onto the skin and releases nicotine through the skin and into the bloodstream at a steady rate usually over a 24 hour time period. These patches come in different strengths with a heavy smoker starting on a patch with a high nicotine dose and then moving onto a patch with a lower nicotine dose after a number of weeks.

Nicotine gum like the nicotine patch can be brought over the counter without a prescription. This gum is chewed on for a brief period of time and then rested between the cheek and gum. For some people the bitter taste of the gum is unappealing but there are a variety of flavours to choose from. The gum should however only be used as a short term method and not as a substitute for cigarettes as the gum can be addictive itself.

Anybody with a heart condition or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult their doctor before using either the nicotine patch or the nicotine gum. Finally as it says in the instructions provided with both products, NRT is only effective when combined with an overall form of support.

This additional support can be found in many communities where groups of people who have also stopped smoking meet up to offer each other motivation to remain non smokers. Group therapy does demand time and commitment but does result in a higher success rate than NRT on its own. One-on-one counselling with a psychologist is also an option but is usually more expensive.

If you don't have the time or money to invest in group therapy or one-on-one sessions with a psychologist, then find your own support person. Pick a friend or family member that can call you during the day to provide you with support or who you can visit or call during a critical time.