One year smokefree and never looking back – David’s story

For David, the decision to quit smoking was motivated by his family and a desire to leave smoking behind for good. As his children got older, he no longer wanted them to see him smoking, and he was increasingly aware of the impact it was having on those around him. After previously quitting for four months before returning to smoking, David decided it was time to make a lasting change.

"My kids were getting older and I didn't want them to see me smoking. The smell was starting to bother my wife, and smoking had become quite anti-social. I used to enjoy it, but I also felt guilty about it. That's when I decided I wanted to quit completely."

Leeds Stop Smoking Services offers flexible, evidence-based support to help people quit smoking in a way that works for them. Combining behavioural support with access to effective stop smoking treatments, the service helps people manage cravings, overcome challenges and build the confidence needed for long-term success.

"I was nervous about contacting the service, but I was also proud of myself for taking that first step. I chose varenicline as part of my quit attempt and found the support really effective."

"The sessions were incredibly helpful because they dealt with the mental side of quitting, while the medication helped manage the physical cravings. Having support for both aspects made a huge difference."

"There were moments of doubt along the way, especially when I saw smoking in films or on TV. When those thoughts came up, I reminded myself why I wanted to quit and accepted that although I had enjoyed smoking in the past, that chapter of my life was over."

"I've now been smoke-free for a full year. One of the biggest differences I've noticed is my fitness. I didn't realise how much smoking was affecting my ability to exercise until I stopped. My stamina improved significantly within just a few weeks."

"Thanks to the service, I'm now at a point where I rarely think about smoking at all. If the idea of buying cigarettes ever crosses my mind, I immediately think, 'No, that's not for me.' That's something I never thought I'd be able to say."

"Looking back, quitting smoking has been one of the best decisions I've made. The support gave me the tools and confidence I needed to succeed, and I'm proud to be enjoying life as a non-smoker."