5th May 2014
In today problem statement, Chief journalist Rachel Lim and Junior Chief journalist Benadict Gan were to go around Republic Polytechnic to interview RP students smokers and non-smokers about smoking. We all know that smoking is bad not only for you but also for the loved ones around also. So lets hear what some people have to say about smoking!
RP student Luo Zhi Xiang, 19 together with Tok Wei Ming, 17 were seen under a block opposite RP smoking. Upon seeing the journalists, Tok Wei Ming ran away after revealing his age. We believe that Tok Wei Ming is an underage smoker smoking illegally under a block. Mr Luo said that he smoke because of peer pressure, he spent $50 a week buying cigarettes.
RP student Tan Lai Ang, 18 was seen at the same block but he is not a smoker. We asked him for some advise for smokers to quit. Mr Tan said that he understand that it is very addictive and that do not expect smokers to quit immediately but slowly cutting down on their number of cigarettes.
Most of the RP students smoke below the pathway near Admiralty Park beside Republic Polytechnic. It is actually not against Republic Polytechnic but it is quite a disturbance to the neighbors.
Chief Journalist Rachel Lim Jing Min interviewing Tan Ah Chu.
We interviewed Tan Ah Chu, 30 whom is a cyclist who helps to deliver newspaper. Mr Tan Ah Chu said: "Everyday I cycle to the pathway, it is always filled with students smoking from Republic Polytechnic and they are blocking the pathway. Even I ring the bell they also don't want to give away. Haiyo!"
HARMFUL EFFECTS OF SMOKING:
Causes cancer and 400 other diseases and short/long term side effects.
GUIDE TO QUIT SMOKING:
Strategies That Work
Set a quit date. Pick a day that you'll stop smoking. Put it on your calendar and tell friends and family (if they know) that you'll quit on that day. Think of the day as a dividing line between the smoking you and the new, improved nonsmoker you'll become.
Throw away your cigarettes — all of your cigarettes. People can't stop smoking with cigarettes around to tempt them. So get rid of everything, including ashtrays, lighters, and, yes, even that pack you stashed away for emergencies.
Wash all your clothes. Get rid of the smell of cigarettes as much as you can by washing all your clothes and having your coats or sweaters dry-cleaned. If you smoked in your car, clean that out, too.
Think about your triggers. You're probably aware of the times when you tend to smoke, such as after meals, when you're at your best friend's house, while drinking coffee, or as you're driving. Any situation where it feels automatic to have a cigarette is a trigger. Once you've figured out your triggers, try these tips:
- Break the link. If you smoke when you drive, get a ride to school, walk, or take the bus for a few weeks so you can break the connection. If you normally smoke after meals, do something else after you eat, like go for a walk or talk to a friend.
- Change the place. If you and your friends usually eat takeout in the car so you can smoke, sit in the restaurant instead.
- Substitute something else for cigarettes. It can be hard to get used to not holding something or not having a cigarette in your mouth. If you have this problem, stock up on carrot sticks, sugar-free gum, mints, toothpicks, or lollipops.
Handling Withdrawal
Expect some physical symptoms. If your body is addicted to nicotine, you may go through withdrawal when you quit. Physical feelings of withdrawal can include:
- headaches or stomachaches
- crabbiness, jumpiness, or depression
- lack of energy
- dry mouth or sore throat
- a desire to eat
The symptoms of nicotine withdrawal will pass — so be patient. Try not to give in and sneak a smoke because you'll just have to deal with the withdrawal longer.
Keep yourself busy. Many people find it's best to quit on a Monday, when they have school or work to keep them busy. The more distracted you are, the less likely you'll be to crave cigarettes. Staying active is also a good distraction, plus it helps you keep your weight down and your energy up.
Quit gradually. Some people find that gradually decreasing the number of cigarettes they smoke each day is an effective way to quit. But this strategy doesn't work for everyone. You may find it's better for you to go "cold turkey" and stop smoking all at once.
Questions and Answers
Q: I already know the health risks of smoking. So why is it still so hard for me to quit?
A: Your personal reason for stopping has to be stronger than your desire to light up. Saying, “I want to be around for my 5-year-old for 50 more years” is more powerful than “Smoking is bad for me.” So look inside and find your motivation for quitting, then write down those reasons and carry them with you.
Q: What are common mistakes people make when quitting — and how can I avoid them?
A: Even smokers forget that smoking satisfies an emotional need — and that they must find another way to tend to that need. When people smoke, they’re taking time for themselves. So when a craving strikes, think, What do I want — a smoke or relaxation? Then, find another way to unwind — whether that’s listening to music or taking a walk.
