Smoking cessation services
Do you want to stop smoking?
A FREE smoking
cessation service is now available for all patients, carers and
staff at The Christie.
We offer a free, friendly confidential service
giving help, advice and treatment. Why not attend one of our
clinics held in the Rehabilitation Unit.
We are running Smoking Cessation Clinics on
- Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4.00- 5.30 pm.
You will need to book an appointment to attend these sessions by
telephoning:
Why is it important to stop smoking?
If you continue to smoke this may reduce the chance of your
treatment being successful. It may also make the side effects of
some treatments worse.
Smoking cessation is also the most important lifestyle factor in
reducing ill heath and premature deaths from other cancers and
conditions such as heart and lung disease. We strongly advise you
not to smoke.
What happens if you are an inpatient?
One of our Smoking cessation
therapists can see you on the ward for support,
advice and treatment. Please ask the ward staff to make a referral
to the Complementary Therapy team on your behalf.
How can we help you to stop smoking?
We can help you by providing:
- Auricular acupuncture
- Coping strategies for managing cravings
- Relaxation and hypnotherapy techniques
- Information about nicotine replacement therapies
- Information about where to get help and support locally
What is auricular acupuncture?
This involves placing 5 very small sterile needles into each
ear. There can be slight discomfort on insertion.
Specific points are used to manage the cravings and provide
deep relaxation. We recommend that you rest quietly for up to
40 minutes during your treatment. All needles are disposed of
safely after your treatment.
The results of research studies suggest you may need a minimum
of 3 acupuncture sessions. We will always adapt and provide
sufficient numbers of treatment to help you stop and maintain your
success.
What other treatments could be useful in stopping smoking?
Our Smoking cessation therapists can
also provide relaxation sessions, which can include hypnotherapy
techniques to manage cravings. These can involve the use of guided
imagery, visualisation and gentle breathing techniques. These
therapies can be used alone or combined with Auricular
Acupuncture.
What other help is available?
Our Smoking cessation therapists are
trained to provide information about a range of strategies and
support, including nicotine replacement therapy and other self help
strategies.
