Counseling Intervention for Smoking Cessation in Adults

Abstract

The purpose of the present study was the presentation of a smoking cessation program based on counseling and supportive psychological interventions, combined with enhancement of physical activity in daily life, and orientation to a healthier way of living without smoking. The design and implementation of the intervention was mainly based on the Transtheoretical Model. Every stage of change was the meeting point of setting goals and psychological techniques arising from the theoretical context of five theories and three psychological approaches that formed the basis of the program’s supportive counseling. Some of the key elements
of the program arethe psychological support organized on a personalized counseling, tailored to the needs of each person, the incorporation of exercise in daily life, the consistency and stability of the program and the consultant, the personal development processes and the training for skills towards the change of habits and the establishment of healthy behaviors, as well as the organization of an enhanced quality of life, the development of stress management skills, and the increase of self-efficacy and self-confidence. It seems that the program is effective in smoking cessation and maintaining abstinence from it throughout the follow
up period, as well as in the integrationof physical activityin the daily life of individualsand the adoption of ahealthy and qualitative lifestyle.