Quitting Smoking: A 40-Day Journey to Freedom
Robin, a smoker for 17 years, has tried everything to kick the habit: e-cigarettes, nicotine patches, acupuncture, therapy… even hypnosis! "I haven’t managed to quit," he admits, attributing his struggle to his underlying anxiety, which makes facing the quitting process seem overwhelming.
He hasn’t yet tried the November "Month Without Tobacco" program, a pharmacy initiative offering practical support to help smokers conquer their addiction.
"This program includes a 40-day guide to quitting smoking," explains Sophie Marchon from the Madeleine pharmacy in Poitiers. "You write down your personal motivations, track your smoking habits, including the times and quantity of cigarettes you smoke. And then, day by day, it guides you with helpful tips and advice."
The kit is packed with resources to help smokers navigate their journey. It focuses on practical strategies for managing cravings, suggests activities to replace smoking rituals, and encourages the formation of new, healthier habits.
This program has helped over 1.4 million people since 2016, according to Santé Publique France. Quitting for a month significantly increases your chances of becoming a non-smoker – five times more, in fact!
Countless individuals have found the "Month Without Tobacco" program to be a turning point on their path to a smoke-free life.
"Maybe a particular date, a wake-up call, an event in your life— these can all be triggers,” Sophie Marchon advises. “You could seize this opportunity to quit. Your pharmacist can provide initial support, and your doctor can step in later to guide you along the way.”
She also emphasizes the importance of a supportive social environment: "your loved ones should respect your decision and avoid tempting you with cigarettes, like after a meal."
And if a lapse in your no-smoking journey ever occurs, don’t give up hope! Reach out to Tabac Info Service at 39 89 – they’re dedicated to providing you with the motivation and support you need to get back on track.
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Sophie Marchon on Quitting Smoking
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Sophie Marchon, and thank you for joining us today to discuss the “Month Without Tobacco” initiative. Your expertise in addiction recovery is incredibly valuable, especially for those like Robin, who have faced numerous challenges in quitting smoking. Can you start by sharing a little about this program and what it entails?
Sophie Marchon: Thank you for having me! The “Month Without Tobacco” program is designed as a supportive framework to help smokers like Robin eventually break free from nicotine addiction. It’s a 40-day journey that provides practical tools, emotional support, and a comprehensive guide to navigate through the quitting process. Each week focuses on different aspects of quitting, addressing both physical withdrawal and the psychological hurdles that come with it.
Time.news Editor: It sounds like an incredibly structured approach. Robin has tried a variety of methods, from e-cigarettes to hypnosis, but his underlying anxiety seems to have made quitting particularly difficult. How does your program address the emotional and psychological aspects of quitting?
Sophie Marchon: That’s a vital point. Many smokers, like Robin, grapple with feelings of anxiety and stress that can intensify during the quitting process. Our program includes strategies such as mindfulness, motivational support, and cognitive-behavioral techniques to help participants manage these feelings. We don’t just focus on the physical withdrawal but also on building resilience and coping strategies so that participants can handle their anxiety without resorting to smoking.
Time.news Editor: Interesting. An emotional approach may help a lot of individuals in Robin’s situation. You mentioned a community aspect of the program too. How important is peer support in this journey?
Sophie Marchon: Peer support is absolutely crucial! Quitting smoking can feel isolating, but being part of a community helps to combat that loneliness. Participants in our program are encouraged to share their experiences, struggles, and successes. This shared journey fosters a sense of accountability and encouragement that can significantly boost an individual’s motivation to stay on track. Connection with others facing similar challenges can provide both comfort and practical advice.
Time.news Editor: That sounds incredibly empowering. Robin hasn’t yet engaged with the program; what would you say to someone in his position who is hesitant to try yet another method?
Sophie Marchon: I would remind Robin—and anyone else in a similar boat—that quitting doesn’t have to be a solitary endeavor, nor does it have to be done all at once. The “Month Without Tobacco” program is about progress, not perfection. Each day is an opportunity to take a small step toward a healthier life. I encourage anyone to reach out, explore what’s offered in the program, and understand that it’s okay to seek help. Change can be daunting, but with the right support, it can also be incredibly liberating.
Time.news Editor: That’s powerful advice, Sophie. Before we conclude, what final message do you have for smokers who want to quit but feel overwhelmed by their addiction?
Sophie Marchon: My final message would be this: you are not alone in your struggle, and it’s never too late to try again. Quitting smoking is a journey, and it’s important to be gentle with yourself as you navigate it. Seek out support—whether it’s through programs like “Month Without Tobacco,” professional counseling, or supportive friends and family. Celebrate every small victory and know that freedom from smoking is within reach. It’s about finding the right tools that work for you.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Sophie. Your insights not only shine a light on the complexities of quitting smoking but also offer hope for those still fighting this battle. We appreciate your time and expertise today!
Sophie Marchon: Thank you for having me. Together, we can help more people find their path to freedom from smoking!