US Smoking and tobacco use in the U.S. are not nearly at the level they were a few decades ago, but they remain serious health problems. The number of adult smokers has declined over the years, but it is estimated that 18% of adults are still smokers.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) concluded that 42.1 million adults in the US are frequent smokers, which also does not factor in the tendency to vaping. 300 billion cigarettes are sold in the US every year. Tap or click here for Kim’s secret to a healthier heart and more energy.
Even if you’ve smoked for years, it’s never too late to quit. This can be challenging to do, and many people go through the procedures multiple times. But it certainly can be done, as 61.7% of adults who have ever smoked have managed to quit.
Fortunately, technology can help you with this. Here are some apps that can help you start your journey to a healthier and longer life.
longing to leave
Billed as a mindfulness-based wellness program, Cravings to Quit uses techniques developed by Yale to help you stop smoking in 21 days. Through the program’s app, you’ll learn exercises to manage your urge to smoke.
The first three days of the program are free so you can test it out and see what’s included. After that it’s $24.99 per month, but if you meet your goals in 21 days, you’ll only have to pay for one month. Download the app for iOS here. Or, download the app for Android here.
Quit now!
Available for Android devices and iOS devices, QuitNow! There is a network of like-minded people to help you through the process. With over 8 million downloads globally, you don’t need to try to leave alone. The app reinforces the dangers of smoking and rewards you with achievements for every milestone.
It also shows you how much money you have saved, how your health has improved and how many days you have been smoke-free. The app is free to use, but it offers in-app purchases and a Pro version for $3.99.
fiery
Flamy app will help you to quit smoking in 14 days. Available only for Android, the app guides you through a number of goals and achievements to make the experience smoother.
It also displays what happens to your body right after you quit and continues to tell you how your health improves. To keep you on track, the app displays valuable tips and inspiration cards. It is free to use but offers in-app purchases.
EasyQuit
Available as a free download for Android and iOS devices, the EasyQuit app features a combination of motivation and statistics. When you decide to quit, the app will show you how your health continues to improve.
But you don’t have to quit cold turkey as the app has a slow mode to help you kick your daily nicotine addiction slowly. It shows you a pie chart of the top things to avoid to see what triggers cravings.
There are two apps available for free, provided by the SmokeFree.gov website. QuitGuide helps you overcome the habit by tracking your craving and slippage based on time and place. It also helps you to stay motivated through inspirational messages. It can be downloaded here for Android and iOS here.
QuitStart is also available for iOS and Android devices and is a great resource. It provides you with tips and information and monitors your progress with milestones and achievements. The app can also distract you from cravings through games and challenges.