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Reasons why people may choose to smoke

People may start smoking cigarettes or using e-cigarettes for various reasons, including:

1. Peer Influence: Many individuals start smoking due to peer pressure or the influence of friends or family members who smoke. Social dynamics can play a significant role in initiating smoking behavior.

2. Curiosity and Experimentation: Some people try smoking out of curiosity or as an experimental behavior, often during adolescence. The desire to explore and experience new things can lead to the initiation of smoking.

3. Perceived Coolness or Rebellion: Smoking has, at times, been associated with a perceived sense of coolness, rebellion, or maturity. This image may attract individuals, especially in adolescence, who are seeking identity and social acceptance.

4. Stress Relief: The belief that smoking can help alleviate stress or provide a coping mechanism is a common reason for initiation. Some individuals turn to smoking as a way to manage emotional challenges.

5. Social and Cultural Influences: Cultural norms, family traditions, or the portrayal of smoking in media can influence individuals to start smoking. Social acceptance or normalization of smoking in certain communities may contribute to initiation.

6. Marketing and Advertising: Tobacco companies have historically used advertising and marketing strategies to make smoking appealing. Advertising may create a glamorous or desirable image associated with smoking.

7. Accessibility: Easy access to cigarettes or e-cigarettes can contribute to initiation. Availability and affordability of tobacco products play a role, especially in environments with lax regulations.

8. Psychological Factors: Some individuals may initiate smoking due to psychological factors such as a desire for self-control, independence, or a perceived boost in confidence.

9. Weight Management: The appetite-suppressant effects of nicotine may lead some individuals, particularly those concerned about weight, to start smoking.

10. Parental Influence: Children of parents who smoke are more likely to start smoking themselves, influenced by the behavior modeled within the family.

Understanding these reasons helps inform prevention efforts and targeted interventions to discourage smoking initiation, especially among young people. Public health campaigns and education about the risks associated with smoking play a crucial role in reducing initiation rates.

Ways to stop or reduce smoking

There are several strategies to help individuals stop or reduce smoking, including the use of Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) and vaping. Here are some approaches:

1. Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT):

- Nicotine Patch: Delivers a steady, controlled dose of nicotine through the skin, helping to reduce withdrawal symptoms.

- Nicotine Gum: Provides a source of nicotine that can be chewed to help manage cravings.

- Nicotine Lozenge: Dissolves in the mouth, releasing nicotine to address cravings.

- Nicotine Nasal Spray: Administers nicotine through a nasal spray, offering a rapid way to alleviate cravings.

- Nicotine Inhaler: Mimics the hand-to-mouth action of smoking while delivering nicotine vapor.

2. Prescription Medications:

- Bupropion (Zyban): An antidepressant that has been found to help some individuals quit smoking.

- Varenicline (Chantix): A prescription medication that reduces withdrawal symptoms and cravings by affecting nicotine receptors in the brain.

3. Behavioral Therapy:

- Counseling: Behavioral counseling can be effective, either individually or in group settings, to address the psychological aspects of smoking and develop coping strategies.

4. Support Groups:

- Joining a support group or seeking support from friends and family can provide encouragement and motivation during the quitting process.

5. Mindfulness and Stress Reduction:

- Practices such as mindfulness meditation and stress reduction techniques can help manage stress, a common trigger for smoking.

6. Setting a Quit Date:

- Choose a specific date to quit smoking and mentally prepare for the change. Having a clear goal can enhance commitment.

7. Vaping (with Caution):

- Some individuals use e-cigarettes as a harm reduction strategy. While they may be less harmful than traditional cigarettes, the long-term health effects of vaping are still under investigation. It's crucial to approach vaping with caution, especially for non-smokers and youth.

8. Cold Turkey:

- Some individuals successfully quit smoking abruptly without the use of medications or therapies. This method requires strong determination and coping strategies for managing cravings.

It's important to note that what works for one person may not work for another. Combining different strategies and seeking professional advice can enhance the chances of success. Consulting with healthcare professionals or smoking cessation specialists can provide personalised guidance and support tailored to individual needs.

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What is in a cigarette

Cigarettes typically contain tobacco, which is dried and processed. The smoke produced when a cigarette is burned contains nicotine, tar, and various harmful chemicals. Filters may be used to reduce some of these substances, but smoking still poses health risks.

Risk factors of smoking

Smoking is a major risk factor for various health conditions, including:

1. Coronary Heart Disease (CHD): Smoking contributes to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, leading to atherosclerosis. This increases the risk of coronary heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes.

2. Cancers: Smoking is the leading cause of many types of cancer, including lung, throat, mouth, esophagus, pancreas, bladder, and more. It also increases the risk of developing cancers in other organs.

3. Lung Infections: Smoking damages the respiratory system, weakens the immune system, and increases susceptibility to respiratory infections such as pneumonia and bronchitis.

4. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Long-term smoking is a primary cause of COPD, which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema, leading to breathing difficulties.

5. Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): Smoking contributes to the development of PAD, reducing blood flow to the limbs and increasing the risk of complications such as infections and amputations.

6. Infertility and Pregnancy Complications: Smoking can affect fertility in both men and women. Pregnant women who smoke face an increased risk of miscarriage, premature birth, and low birth weight.

Quitting smoking has immediate and long-term health benefits, reducing the risk of these conditions and improving overall well-being.

COPD- chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is a progressive lung disease primarily associated with smoking. It includes two main conditions:

1. Chronic Bronchitis: Inflammation and narrowing of the bronchial tubes, leading to increased mucus production and persistent cough.

2. Emphysema: Damage to the air sacs in the lungs, reducing their elasticity and impairing airflow.

Smoking is the primary cause of COPD, and long-term exposure to cigarette smoke leads to the gradual deterioration of lung function.

Other risk factors include exposure to environmental pollutants and genetic factors.

Symptoms of COPD include shortness of breath, chronic cough, wheezing, and chest tightness. While COPD is a progressive disease with no cure, quitting smoking can significantly slow its progression and improve symptoms. Various treatments, including medications, pulmonary rehabilitation, and oxygen therapy, aim to manage symptoms and enhance quality of life for individuals with COPD. Early detection and smoking cessation are crucial for managing COPD effectively.

Electronic cigarettes

E-cigarettes, or electronic cigarettes, are devices that heat a liquid (usually containing nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals) to create an aerosol, which is then inhaled. They are often considered a less harmful alternative to traditional cigarettes, but they are not without their own limitations and risks.

Comparison to Cigarettes:

1. Reduced Harm: E-cigarettes generally produce fewer harmful chemicals than traditional cigarettes, which involve burning tobacco. This can lead to a reduction in exposure to harmful toxins.

2. Nicotine Delivery: E-cigarettes deliver nicotine without the combustion process, potentially reducing the risk of certain health issues associated with smoking.

3. Secondhand Smoke: E-cigarettes produce vapor rather than smoke, which may result in lower levels of secondhand exposure to harmful substances.

Limitations and Risks of E-cigarettes:

1. Not Risk-Free: While they are considered less harmful, e-cigarettes are not completely risk-free. The long-term health effects are still being studied, and some health risks may emerge over time.

2. Nicotine Addiction: E-cigarettes can still be addictive due to nicotine content, and their use may contribute to nicotine dependence, especially among non-smokers, including youth.

3. Unknown Health Effects: The safety of the flavorings and other chemicals in e-cigarettes is not fully understood, and there are concerns about potential lung damage and other health risks.

4. Gateway to Smoking: There's a concern that e-cigarette use, particularly among young people, may serve as a gateway to smoking traditional cigarettes.

5. Quality Control Issues: The quality control of e-cigarette products varies, and some may contain harmful substances or operate at higher temperatures, increasing the risk of toxin production.

While e-cigarettes may offer harm reduction for established smokers, caution is advised, especially for non-smokers, youth, and pregnant women. Public health efforts often emphasize smoking cessation as the best approach for health benefits.

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Social well being and mental health the main thing to maintain these is a good relationships with friends, family or a partner as this creates a sense of being wanted by people, feeling appreciated and loved.

Social well being is important because we develop skills to create communities and feel safe.

It allows us to build and maintain healthy relationships

Being able to interact with a range of people and having a sense of belonging

Manage your emotions

Being aware of rights and responsibilities

Health is not just the absence of disease or sickness but is a state of complete physical, mental and social well being.

Mental health is the term used to describe your mental state- how you are feeling and how well you can cope with day to day life. Mental health is a state of well being and the ability and resilience.

Exercise makes you feel better for your mental and physical health, you feel very positive after because when you exercise serotonin gets released and that chemical makes you happy

The more income you have the more likely you are to live longer. As you will live at higher level of life. If you are in the lower end of income then this may lead to an early death as you will live a lower level of life possibly not being able to afford medicine.

Improving social and mental well-being involves adopting positive habits and making intentional efforts to foster connections. Here are some strategies to enhance social and mental health:

Social Well-Being:

Build and Maintain Relationships:

Cultivate meaningful relationships with friends, family, and colleagues.

Invest time in nurturing connections through regular communication and shared activities.

Join Social Groups:

Participate in clubs, organizations, or community groups aligned with your interests.

Engage in group activities to meet new people and expand your social circle.

Practice Active Listening:

Develop strong communication skills, including active listening and empathy.

Show genuine interest in others’ perspectives and experiences.

Volunteer:

Contribute to your community through volunteer work.

Volunteering provides a sense of purpose and can lead to the formation of new social bonds.

Limit Screen Time:

Balance online interactions with face-to-face connections.

Set boundaries for screen time to avoid isolation and promote in-person socialization.

Mental Well-Being:

Prioritize Self-Care:

Establish self-care routines that include activities you enjoy.

Focus on adequate sleep, regular exercise, and healthy eating habits.

Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques:

Incorporate mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises, into your daily routine.

Engage in activities that promote relaxation and stress reduction.

Set Realistic Goals:

Break larger goals into smaller, achievable tasks.

Celebrate small victories, and be kind to yourself during

challenging times.

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Carbohydrates-provides quick energy 60% of our diet should be ‘carbs’.

Protein- assists you on putting on muscle and will help you ‘bulk’ up

Benefits of a healthy diet- you will improve dental health, more energy, less likely to get diseases, healthy body weight, your digestive system will be more consistent and many more.

11 million of us are going into an early grave because of a poor diet

Healthy nutrition is 3x more expensive than unhealthy products

There is programs you can go on to sort your diet out such as slimming world where people who insecure that are overweight get put on a good diet and are paired with a good exercise plan. No food is banned it is mostly mental based.

To achieve a healthy diet you can start by eating the recommended amounts of particular foods the first recommended amount is to eat your five a day. At least five portions of a variety of fruit and vegetables every day this helps to lower the risk of heart disease and other serious health problems.

Also to achieve a good diet you should base meals on higher fibre starchy foods such as potatoes, bread, rice or pasta this will help maximising energy and helping you get through the day with slow burn calories.

You should also consume dairy or dairy alternatives these are good protein sources also these help digestive health. You can also eat beans, pulses, fish, eggs, meat and many more alternatives for protein these are all good sources of protein.

You should also consume carbohydrates with your meals as this helps to provide the body with glucose which converts to energy to support bodily functions and helps with doing physical activity.

BMI, or Body Mass Index, is a measure of body fat based on an individual’s weight and height. It is commonly used to assess whether a person has a healthy body weight.

Normal weight: BMI 18.5 to 24.9

BMI is a useful screening tool, but it doesn’t directly measure body fat percentage, and it doesn’t account for variations in muscle mass, bone density, and distribution of fat. Therefore, it may not be a perfect indicator of an individual’s health, and other assessments may be needed.

In terms of a “healthy” BMI, falling within the normal weight range (18.5 to 24.9) is generally considered optimal for most adults. However, it’s essential to recognize that individual health is complex, and other factors like diet, physical activity, and overall well-being also contribute to a person’s health status. Always consult with a healthcare professional for a comprehensive assessment of health and weight status.

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LSD- paranoia, hallucinations, addiction, sensory distortion, dehydration

Cocaine- intense pleasure, very confident, angry, increased heart rate, death, can get HIV

MDMA- depression dry mouth, nightmares, swinging jaw.

Marijuana- impaired co-ordination, increased sexual attraction, altered judgement, affects brain and how it functions, lower IQ, bronchitis,

Heroin- itchiness, calmness, get addicted, death.

Amphetamine- weight loss, boils, skin abscess.

Prescription drugs- some medicine for the minor illnesses can be bought over a counter without a prescription, so you can treat yourself without needing to see a GP. This can lead to addiction and trying to get the feeling back after being on serious pain killers.

Prescription-only medicines, such as medicines, such as antibiotics, must prescribed by a health professional

People can end up relying on drugs to get through the day especially people who work in high stress environments, they can use them to help them ‘get through the day’ this can lead to addiction and loss of lots of money as they will spend thousands every year on drugs for recreational use.

Drugs are also used in sports some for cheating in sport

The use of drugs in sports raises ethical, health, and fairness concerns. Athletes may be tempted to use performance-enhancing drugs to gain a competitive edge, leading to an uneven playing field. Additionally, doping can pose serious health risks to athletes, compromising their well-being for short-term gains. Strict anti-doping measures and education are crucial to maintain the integrity of sports and protect the health of athletes.

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A sedentary lifestyle is when someone is sitting, laying, desk bound for long periods of time it also means to have little physical activity through out a typical day or week.

The risks associated with sedentary lifestyles

Are high blood pressure weight gain obesity and an increased risk of mental health problems.

Reasons people have sedentary lifestyles.

One reason may be that these people have an office job and have no choice but to sit down more than six hours a day. People can help this by in their free time they can exercise, go outside or go to the gym.

Adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week.

This activity can be spread throughout the week, in sessions of at least 10 minutes.

Muscle-Strengthening Activities:

Include muscle-strengthening activities on 2 or more days a week.

This can involve major muscle groups and should be done on non-consecutive days.

Balance and Flexibility: Include balance and flexibility exercises, especially for older adults, to reduce the risk of falls and improve functional mobility.

Sedentary Behavior: Reduce sedentary behavior. Break up long periods of sitting by standing or moving around.

Additional Benefits: Additional health benefits can be gained by increasing the amount of aerobic activity to 300 minutes per week or by engaging in more vigorous-intensity activity.

It’s important to note that individual health conditions and fitness levels may vary, so individuals should consult with healthcare providers before starting a new exercise program, especially if they have pre-existing health concerns.

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Stress is the feeling of being under too much pressure and being unable to cope with it.

Stress examples:

Exams/deadlines

Moving/change/

Relationships

Work

Money worries

Family

Death

Health

Sports performance

High standards

Eustress-stress that motivates and improves performance

Distress- form of stress that results in a negative impact on the individual.

Short term effects of stress-

Anger

Depression

Anxiety

Biting nails

Nervous twitching

Difficulty concentrating

Long term effects-

High blood pressure

Stroke

Sleep problems

Weight gain

Stress can make you develop bad habits such as drugs, smoking or excessive drinking people use these for answers to there stress to make them not think about it and people use stress for an excuse to start bad habits.

Techniques to reduce stress are Sport or active exercise and

Meditation

Psychological benefits of exercise

self esteem

Improves mood

Reduces anxiety levels

Increase the ability to handle stress

And generally makes people happier

•Social Support: Positive relationships can serve as a buffer against stress. Having a support system, whether it’s friends, family, or a partner, provides emotional support, encouragement, and a sense of belonging. Sharing concerns and receiving understanding can help individuals cope with stress more effectively.

•Conflict and Strain: On the flip side, relationships characterised by conflict, tension, or strained communication can contribute significantly to stress. Constant arguments, misunderstandings, or unresolved issues can create a persistent source of emotional strain, negatively impacting mental and physical well-being.

•Health Impact: Healthy relationships have been linked to better physical health. Supportive relationships can lead to lower levels of stress hormones, improved immune function, and a reduced risk of chronic illnesses. Conversely, strained relationships can contribute to health problems and exacerbate existing conditions.

Reducing or managing stress involves adopting various strategies that cater to your preferences and lifestyle. Here are some ways to reduce stress:

1.Exercise:

•Engage in regular physical activity, such as walking, jogging, or yoga, to release endorphins and promote relaxation.

2.Mindfulness and Meditation:

•Practice mindfulness and meditation techniques to help calm the mind and reduce stress. Apps and local classes can guide you.

3.Deep Breathing Exercises:

-Incorporate deep breathing exercises to slow down your breath and promote a sense of calm. These can be done anywhere and anytime.

4.Hobbies and Leisure Activities:

•Dedicate time to activities you enjoy, whether it’s reading, painting, gardening, or playing a musical instrument.

5.Socializing:

•Spend time with friends and family. Social support is crucial for stress management. Consider joining local clubs or groups with shared interests.

6.Time Management:

•Organize your schedule and prioritize tasks. Breaking down large tasks into smaller, manageable steps can make them less overwhelming.

7.Limiting Stimulants:

•Reduce or limit the intake of stimulants like caffeine and nicotine, especially in the evening, to promote better sleep and stress management.

8.Adequate Sleep:

•Ensure you get enough quality sleep. Establish a relaxing bedtime routine and create a comfortable sleep environment.

9.Healthy Diet:

•Eat a balanced and nutritious diet to support your overall well-being. Avoid excessive consumption of sugary or processed foods.

10. Journaling:

•Keep a journal to express your thoughts and feelings. Writing can be a therapeutic way to process emotions and gain perspective.

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To keep health risks from alcohol it is best to not drink any more than 14 units a week on a regular basis, as this could make alcohol start affecting your health. The government recommends men should drink no more than 4 units of alcohol a day but not everyday you should still drink less than 14 units a week. The government also suggest that women should drink no more than 3 units of alcohol a day. Men can drink a higher amount of alcohol as their bodies are less tolerant to alcohol.

There are many risks of excessively drinking alcohol such as: high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, liver disease, digestive problems and many more, if you already have an illness drinking can accelerate your ilness and make it much worse, also if your on antibiotics and you have a drinking problem you might not be able to stop drinking and you may drink whilst you’re on medication which will make you feel dazed and unwell.

People may consume alcohol for the short amount of dopamine that you get from consuming alcohol. Some people see it as an answer for everything, if youre happy alcohol, if your sad alcohol, if your celebrating alcohol many people find an excuse to use alcohol. Some people drink to relieve the symptoms of their mental health issues. Some people drink to increase their confidence or be more courageous. However the effect of alcohol is only temporary.

There are many ways to stop drinking such as support from your family, your friends or even people you work with. You need to learn to control urges, cravings and triggers. You could set goals for yourself so you have an aim. Another thing you could do is you could gradually stop drinking, cut down on the amount of alcohol. With the right support and the correct encouragement anybody can stop drinking.

There is things which people take part in to encourage consuming less alcohol such as dry January which consists of a month when your not allowed to drink for the full 31 days of January. This can help alcoholics start learning to ignore the temptation of drinking. Some people may realise they have become healthier within that month and not drink again and they may be sober for longer.

If you’re looking to replace alcohol in your life, consider these alternatives and activities:

1. Non-Alcoholic Beverages:

•Explore a variety of non-alcoholic drinks such as mocktails, alcohol-free beer, or non-alcoholic wine.

•Create your own refreshing beverages using fresh fruits, herbs, and sparkling water.

2. Mindful Activities:

•Engage in mindfulness activities like meditation or yoga to relax and alleviate stress.

•Practice deep-breathing exercises as an alternative way to unwind.

3. Socialising Without Alcohol:

•Attend social events where alcohol isn’t the primary focus.

•Host gatherings with friends centred around non-alcoholic activities, like board games, hiking, or movie nights.