• Social interaction doesn't have to center around smoking. There are much healthier alternatives.smoking image by Alison Bowden from Fotolia.com
  
  According to the American Lung Association, more than 392,000 Americans die from diseases related to smoking or second-hand smoke each year. Smoking cigarettes is the leading cause of preventable death. Smoking is not only unhealthy, it's also addictive and expensive, but quitting is not easy. There are many healthier alternatives to smoking cigarettes, and using these alternatives can help you quit smoking and get back on the road to health.
  
  

Nicotine Replacement

• Take nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). This can come in the form of a nicotine patch, gum, lozenge or inhaler. This will reduce the effects of withdrawal and minimize withdrawal symptoms. A doctor can help you decide which will work best for you.
  
  

Prescriptions

• Ask your doctor about a prescription for an antidepressant known as bupropion. This drug is supposed to reduce symptoms associated with quitting smoking and could be an alternative to smoking that will make quitting easier. The drug varenicline tartrate could remove cravings associated with smoking.
  
  

Exercise

• Exercise to take your mind off smoking. This could also enhance your mood, making it easier to give up smoking. It's a good alternative to smoking because it gives you something positive to do in place of smoking.
  
  

Therapy

• Therapies such as acupuncture, massage therapy, acupressure and hypnosis might work as alternatives to cigarettes. The medical community is split on their effectiveness, but as long as you've consulted with your doctor, any type of therapy can be beneficial because it might help reduce the tension and stress associated with not smoking. Joining a counseling group could also offer therapy and support to help determine why you smoke.
  
  

Bordeom or Social

• Determine the reason why you smoke. If you are seeking relaxation, a massage, exercise or breathing exercises are good alternatives to smoking. If you are bored or lonely, find a hobby or indulge in your passion to take your mind off smoking. If you smoke to feel more comfortable in social situations, get a makeover and learn to build your confidence.