Smartphones have become indispensable tools for various aspects of daily life. From social media platforms connecting us to friends around the world to fitness tracking apps, like MyFitnessPal and Nike Training Club, that keep users motivated, accountable, and on the path to a healthier lifestyle, smartphone apps are changing the way we live. So, it’s no surprise that this medium has also led to new methods for smoking cessation.
With the proliferation of health and wellness apps designed to support individuals in achieving their goals, the realm of smoking cessation has also seen a surge in app development aimed at helping people quit for good. Here are a few of the best quit-smoking apps you can try and some tips on making the most out of them.
The EX program
In partnership with the Mayo Clinic Nicotine Dependence Center, EX is a free digital quit program developed by the Truth Initiative. This program provides personalized support that tobacco users need for the behavioral, social, and physical aspects of addiction. EX includes a personalized quit plan with interactive exercises, nicotine replacement therapy, live chat with coaching experts, and interactive text messaging tailored to the participant. Research has shown that individuals who use all components of the EX quit plan are four times more likely to quit than others.
iCanQuit
Based on approaches used in acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), the iCanQuit app motivates smokers to quit by teaching acceptance of smoking triggers rather than avoiding them. In contrast to other approaches, ACT techniques appeal to one’s values and encourage the user to allow an urge to smoke to pass without acting on it. On the app, users can set a quit date and then follow the guidance of the app’s virtual coach, who teaches them how to become more aware of specific personal stressors that trigger their tobacco cravings. According to a JAMA review, users of the iCanQuit app had 1.49 times higher odds of quitting compared to users of the National Cancer Institute’s QuitGuide app.
Kwit
The Kwit app is a gamified mobile app designed to help smokers quit by using cognitive behavioral therapy techniques. The app consists of features such as a smoking diary to log cravings and triggers, motivation cards, and a tracker to monitor self-progress. In a study that examined whether higher engagement with gamification features is associated with the likelihood of quitting in the short term, researchers concluded that gamified elements had a positive effect on short-term smoking abstinence.
How to make the most out of quit-smoking apps
Several studies indicate that while smoking cessation apps are a good tool to aid cessation, their effectiveness is enhanced when used in conjunction with a more conventional approach, such as the use of a smoking alternative or nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). One smoking alternative that has become popular is the nicotine pouch, an effective tool to quit smoking that provides a source of nicotine without the harmful carcinogens produced by tobacco smoke.
While the aforementioned apps can aid cessation by addressing motivation and behavior, nicotine pouches alleviate the physical aspects, like cravings and other withdrawal symptoms from the lack of nicotine. Top nicotine pouch brands, including ZYN and VELO, are available on Prilla in varying strengths and flavors. This way, users can tailor their use according to their preferences and level of dependence. Nicotine pouches can also be ordered conveniently online and delivered straight to your doorstep for a smoother cessation experience.
Alternatively, you can opt for NRTs like the Jones nicotine lozenges. This cessation medication works by releasing a small amount of nicotine into the body to reduce withdrawal symptoms and is an FDA-approved method of cessation. Jones lozenges are available for purchase through its website and come in 2 mg dosages flavored with mint.Â
With the accessibility and convenience of smoking cessation apps, individuals have a powerful ally in their journey toward a smoke-free life. By harnessing the features and support offered by these, in tandem with an appropriate smoking alternative, users can overcome smoking addiction with greater ease and confidence.
