There has never been a better time to stop smoking than now. Covid-19 is a respiratory virus which affects the lungs and airways. As a result, smoking may increase the risk of a more severe coronavirus infection

Stopping smoking is the best thing you'll ever do. Quitting can make a drastic improvement to your lifestyle and health in ways you might not expect. Once you stop smoking, some of the benefits are immediate and some are longer-term. Just imagine yourself being smokefree. Feeling great and being free of the addiction.

Find out how quickly you'll notice the benefits of stopping:

  • After 20 minutes: Blood pressure and pulse rate return to normal.

  • After 8 hours: Nicotine and carbon monoxide levels in blood reduce by half and oxygen levels return to normal.

  • After 24 hours: Carbon monoxide will be eliminated from the body. Lungs start to clear out mucus and other smoking debris.

  • After 48 hours: There is no nicotine in the body. Ability to taste and smell is greatly improved.

  • After 72 hours: Breathing becomes easier. Bronchial tubes begin to relax and energy levels increase.

Smoking and your Mental health

Quitting smoking improves your mental health – it can reduce depression, anxiety, and stress and improve positive mood and quality of life. Quitting smoking can also improve anxiety and depression as much as anti-depressants, as well as reduce the amount of anti-psychotic medications (e.g. clozapine) you need to take.

Click on the buttons below for some more facts and frequently asked questions about smoking and mental health, and see stories from people with mental health conditions who have quit smoking.