BLOOMINGTON – The holidays can be stressful, and there are a variety of healthy ways to deal with stress without turning to tobacco products.
“Going on a walk, taking some deep breaths, and stretching are just a few things to try when you experience stress,” said IU Health Community Health Tobacco Prevention Coordinator Kristen Terry. “Cigarettes and other tobacco products don’t help in the long run and can actually lead to increased stress and anxiety.”
Terry explained that tobacco addiction adds pressure to your life. It can cause a person to feel anxious even during times of joy because the body is starting to crave the nicotine found in cigarettes and other tobacco products.
Accepting that you want to quit tobacco is the first step. Finding help is the second.
“Having a good support system is a huge help for many individuals who want to quit tobacco,” said Terry. “This means friends, family, and healthcare professionals.”
If you want to quit and need some help, call the Indiana Tobacco Quitline (1-800-QUIT-NOW) for free, evidence-based support for tobacco users who want to quit. Visit QuitNowIndiana.com to find out more.
About Indiana University Health
Named among the “Best Hospitals in America” by U.S. News & World Report for 23 consecutive years, Indiana University Health is dedicated to providing a unified standard of preeminent, patient-centered care. A unique partnership with Indiana University School of Medicine – one of the nation’s leading medical schools – gives our highly skilled physicians access to innovative treatments using the latest research and technology. Learn more at www.iuhealth.org.
