Ready to ditch the smokes and embrace a happier you? A brand-new campaign has just launched in the South East, aiming to debunk a common misconception: that smoking relieves stress.
Published on January 8th, 2026, this initiative, spearheaded by the South East Smokefree Alliance (SESA) – including us and 17 other local authorities – is built on the growing body of evidence that quitting smoking does wonders for both your physical and mental well-being.
The core message? Kicking the habit can actually boost your happiness. But here's where it gets interesting...
The science is compelling: within weeks of quitting, your brain starts to rebalance dopamine – often called the 'happy hormone' – which smoking actively suppresses. Think of it as your brain hitting the reset button!
As part of this exciting campaign, the Stop Smoking Service will be setting up shop at The Pentagon Shopping Centre in Chatham on Wednesday, January 28th. Residents are encouraged to swing by, discover the support available, and join in some fun activities designed to get people thinking – and smiling! Local folks will also be surveyed about what truly makes them happy, from simple joys like spending time outdoors to the deeper sense of calm that comes from self-care.
Cllr Teresa Murray, Deputy Leader of Medway Council and Portfolio Holder for Public Health, emphasizes the campaign's power in dispelling the myth that smoking relieves stress. She notes that this campaign helps dismantle one of the key reasons people continue to smoke. She also highlights the success people have when they seek support to quit, and that the Medway Council team is ready and eager to assist anyone on their smoke-free journey.
Dr. Sarah Milne, Lead of the South East Smokefree Alliance, adds a crucial perspective: many people believe smoking helps manage stress, but the reality is quite the opposite. Nicotine cleverly tricks your brain into thinking it needs it to feel calm, when, in fact, it's stealing your happiness and resilience. And this is the part most people miss...
Dr. Milne says that within weeks of quitting, your brain begins to heal, and your mood naturally lifts. This campaign, uniting partners serving over 9 million people, is a powerful reminder that brighter moods and calmer minds are within reach, and quitting smoking is a major step toward feeling better.
What do you think? Does this campaign resonate with you? Do you agree that smoking is often wrongly perceived as a stress reliever? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
