Stop smoking for good with the help of an app
Quitting smoking is the single best thing you can do to improve your health. Although giving up the smoking habit is undeniably hard, there are tools available to help you on your quest. Here, we take a look at a number of smartphone apps that can be one tool in your quitting toolkit. The options below are all free, although some offer in-app purchases and upgrades you may find worthwhile.
QuitGuide . The National Cancer Institute’s (NCI) Smokefree.gov site has created an app aimed at helping you track your cravings so you can pinpoint and hopefully circumvent your triggers. It also helps you monitor your progress. (Available on Google Play and the App Store.) NCI also offers a variety of text-messaging services, including SmokeFreeTxt, which sends you three to five texts a day. Sign up online at smokefree.gov/tools-tips/text-programs .
QuitNow! Think of this app as a support group in your pocket. This app’s key feature is a chat function that can connect you with other quitters. The app’s milestone system gives you achievements to work toward, not unlike a Fitbit for quitting smoking. (Available on Google Play and the App Store.)
Butt Out. This app relies on an in-your-face approach, with cartoon graphics and colors. You can track cigarettes smoked (helpful if you choose a taper-down approach) and check real-time statistics on health improvement goals and money saved. (Available on the App Store.)
Quit It Lite. Try this app if you’re either a recent quitter or an ex-smoker looking to stay tobacco-free. You simply input the number of cigarettes you typically smoke (or used to smoke) and the cost per pack, then track cigarettes not smoked and dollars saved as you cut down and quit. You can also set some attainable rewards (such as a coffee or movie ticket) as an incentive, and the app will show you how near you are to your goal. Another feature of the app can be found in its Health section. Progress bars show you when you’re likely to have cut your risk of a heart attack, increased your lung function, and more, based on how long you’ve been smoke-free. (Available on the App Store.)
Quit Smoking Hypnosis. If you’re into a kinder, gentler approach to quitting, this app features the voice and expertise of a hypnotherapist. It claims it can be effective in helping you quit within one to three weeks. The idea is that daily hypnosis sessions allow you to change your mindset and behavior patterns. You can set the audio sessions to continue as you drift off to sleep, or to “wake” you at the end. (Available on Google Play.)
Kwit. This app is based on gamification—turning smoking cessation into a game with playful elements. The app uses principles of cognitive behavioral therapy and offers a personalized dashboard, unlockable achievements, and a diary you can use to stay focused. Feeling a craving? Just shake your phone and you’ll be sent a morale-boosting motivational tip. (Available on Google Play and the App Store.)
