Poll: Smoking

[SovietSecrets]

Do you smoke? What do you prefer to smoke?
Yes. I smoke cigarettes and weed here and there.

Why do you smoke/why did you start?
Friend got me to try pot and I enjoyed it so I continued and I started cigarettes with friends from college when we stood around doing nothing.

How much do you smoke? Cigarettes per day (packs per day if relevant)
Not much. Maybe a cigarette or two every 2-3 weeks. Weed once every month or so.

If you do smoke, do you enjoy it?
Greatly.

Do you smoke regularly? Or just occasionally?
Occasionally.

Do you regret smoking?
Not at all.

Do you think you are addicted to smoking?
Nope.

Was your school education on smoking accurate to the real thing, in your opinion?
I guess? I didn't really care.


Do you think smoking should be banned, or sales of tobacco banned, or some sort of legal enforcement to halt smoking?
No. If alcohol is legal, then smoking should be too.

Have you previously been a smoker, and quit? How was quitting?
Quitting is super easy. Just stop doing it and thats that.

What's some advice you would give to a smoker for quitting?
Just fucking quit. No joke, put your mind on the drive that you are going to quit and have a damn good reason to as well.

 

[loc978]

Do you smoke? What do you prefer to smoke?

That's actually a less straightforward question than it would seem, with me. I own a nice little wooden pipe and a few bags of flavored/scented tobacco... but I haven't lit it up in almost a year.

Why do you smoke/why did you start?

Boredom mixed with tension. I had free time in the Middle East and nothing to do with it. I was anti-smoking all my life up to that point... now I'm just anti-cigarette.

How much do you smoke? Cigarettes per day (packs per day if relevant)

Right now, nothing. Last year, maybe on a weekly basis.

If you do smoke, do you enjoy it?

If I didn't, I would just quit... so, yes.

Do you smoke regularly? Or just occasionally?

Very occasionally.

Do you regret smoking?

No.

Do you think you are addicted to smoking?

Not at all.

Was your school education on smoking accurate to the real thing, in your opinion?

It was a little over-dramatized, but they got the science of it right.

If you don't smoke, do you mind others smoking, or do you hate cigarette smoke?

I dislike cigarette smoke... you can almost taste the acids they used to treat the tobacco in it.

What is you opinion on other people smoking? Is it their right to choose?

To a point, yes. That's why we have designated areas for such a thing.

What do you think of smokers?

In general, heavy smokers are just people with addictive personalities. Other than that, they run the gamut of personality types.

Do you think smoking should be banned, or sales of tobacco banned, or some sort of legal enforcement to halt smoking?

No, but I do think that cigarette manufacturing practices should be closely scrutinized and overhauled into something less horrifically harmful.

What's some advice you would give to a smoker for quitting?

I hate to be that guy... but... like the Nike ads say, Just Do It. If you want to quit, stop smoking. Of course, I don't have an addictive personality, so I truly don't understand what compels people to keep going. It's like lying to yourself and somehow believing the lie. Incomprehensible to me.

 

[similar.squirrel]

Do you smoke? What do you prefer to smoke?
Yes. Menthols [I'm not picky about the brand], or Amberleaf rolling tobacco.

Why do you smoke/why did you start?
I was being melodramatic. The melodrama passed eventually, and the smoking remained. Like silt after a flood. Or the sludge that's probably coating my alveoli.

How much do you smoke? Cigarettes per day (packs per day if relevant):
Anything between zero and four a day.

If you do smoke, do you enjoy it?
Sometimes. I enjoy a cigarette with a cup of tea before I go to bed, or when I'm drunk.

Do you smoke regularly? Or just occasionally?
Fairly regularly.

Do you regret smoking?
Yes.

Do you think you are addicted to smoking?
Yes. I've tried to quit a few times, and I'm gearing up for another attempt.

Was your school education on smoking accurate to the real thing, in your opinion?
It informed us of the fact that cigarettes are carcinogenic, which is all one really needs to know. Didn't really tell us about addiction, but that's hard to describe to the uninitiated.


To anybody who's trying to quit, or thinking of doing so: http://www.cracked.com/forums/topic/80779/pwot-smoke-off/0.

That thread is helpful and hilarious.

 

[ViaGalactica]

Do you smoke? What do you prefer to smoke?
Yes. Either Malboro Reds or Parliament Lights.

Why do you smoke/why did you start?
For the same reason I've started doing everything else in my life: Why the fuck not?

How much do you smoke? Cigarettes per day (packs per day if relevant)
At most, I smoke one pack a week.

If you do smoke, do you enjoy it?
Why, yes I do.

Do you smoke regularly? Or just occasionally?
Occasionally. Usually on weekends or when I find myself with other smokers. And the occasional cig for when I'm stressed out.

Do you regret smoking?
Nope.

Do you think you are addicted to smoking?
No way. I can control myself. I know damn well I won't let it become a habit.

Was your school education on smoking accurate to the real thing, in your opinion?
Nope. It was mostly "Don't do drugs,ever, not even once! Not even cigarrettes! If you try them once you will be forever addicted for life and beyond! And you would be evil. It was bullshit, really.

 

[Asuka Soryu]

I don't smoke and I have no intention on ever starting. I hate the smell so much.

 

[Canid117]

Cigars very rarely. Usually either with my father or at a party with friends and when I say rarely I mean like 10 in the past two years.

 

[Gaiseric]

I don't smoke.

I know a lot of people who do. And I respect their decision but I wish they'd quit(sometimes it sounds like they are coughing up a lung) and they spend a decent chunk of change on cigarettes when they don't make much money anyway.

I wouldn't ban it. Freedom of choice and all that jazz.

I don't plan on starting because of health reasons, I've seen how expensive cigarettes are, and I don't like the idea of being addicted to anything that can harm my health.

edit: Just don't smoke in my car or blow smoke in my face and were cool.

 

[Zantos]

I'm a fan of cigars, and have also been known to smoke rollies in certain situations, such as exam times. Like now. Did my chest in something chronic though, I'm still on the back end of either a really bad cough or weak flu.

I don't let it get in the way of anyone else, and it works for me at times. Don't know how people afford to do it all the time though.

 

[InfiniteSingularity]

Do you think smoking should be banned, or sales of tobacco banned, or some sort of legal enforcement to halt smoking?

No, but I do think that cigarette manufacturing practices should be closely scrutinized and overhauled into something less horrifically harmful.

Actually I agree, I think it would be better if the tailor-made cigarettes were packed with just straight tobacco, rather than adding all the extra chemicals and stuff. That's why I prefer rollies

 

[rmb1983]

Do you smoke? What do you prefer to smoke?

Yes. DuMauriers (regular variety, king-size). I also smoke the occasional cigar.

Why do you smoke/why did you start?

I started when I was 12. Typical story; dumb kids think it's cool, you get hooked, the rest is history.

How much do you smoke? Cigarettes per day (packs per day if relevant)

Half a pack per day. ~12.

Have you ever tried, or are you considering trying at some point?

I've tried a few times in the past. I could hold it down, but came to terms with the fact that I enjoy smoking. Once I have a legitimate reason to quit (kids, health, etc), I'll deal with it; for now, it isn't a priority in my life.

If you do smoke, do you enjoy it?

See above.

Do you smoke regularly? Or just occasionally?

Regularly. See first answer.

Do you regret smoking?

That answer can swing both ways. I don't regret the culmination of things that have made me who I am today, but I do occasionally wonder what my life would be like if I'd have said "No." 16 years ago.

Do you think you are addicted to smoking?

I KNOW I'm addicted. I'm okay with that fact.

Was your school education on smoking accurate to the real thing, in your opinion?

My area's schools didn't offer much in terms of deterring smoking, at the time I was a child/teenager. Negative effects were brought up, from time to time (such as lung capacity or possibilities of the gamut of diseases), but there was never any real education on the matter.

If you don't smoke, do you mind others smoking, or -do you hate cigarette smoke?

I may be a smoker, but I don't particularly care for the smoke. More specifically, from people who smoke in their homes or cars. It really makes a difference (I've always smoked outside).

What is you opinion on other people smoking? Is it their right to choose?

To each their own. Arguably, it affects others, but so does everything else, for good or ill.

What do you think of smokers?

I'm indifferent. I dislike people that smoke indoors, because I've always smoked outside (yes, even in 30 below weather), but I really hold no disdain for what other people do with their lives.

Do you think smoking should be banned, or sales of tobacco banned, or some sort of legal enforcement to halt smoking?

I think outright banning it is a pipe-dream. It'll cause more harm than good; we all know what prohibition leads to.

Have you previously been a smoker, and quit? How was quitting?

Still am, but can tell you that anyone who thinks a person weak for being unable to quit when they've never been a smoker themselves is full of beans. Addiction doesn't cease to be at the snap of your fingers.

What's some advice you would give to a smoker for quitting?

Have a reason you want to quit. If you don't want it in your heart, it isn't going to stick, no matter how hard you try. You'll always go back unless you have that reason not to.
Learn your triggers. Common ones include high stress, boredom, seeing others light a cigarette, and after eating a meal. Learn to fill your time when said triggers would be prevalent so that your mind is occupied on other things, and you don't have the opportunity to think about needing a cigarette.
A good example is that I generally smoke once every two hours (a bit more while at home). If I'm at work, and have absolutely no chance to get away for one over the course of say, five hours, it's because I'm too busy for it. Consequently, I don't feel the need until I've stopped moving and doing. Once you slow down, you'll think about it, and want one. Don't allow yourself the luxury; fill your day, find a hobby to fill in the gaps, etc.

Family and friends are great support (particularly non-smokers, though that goes without saying). Definitely consult a doctor and do some of your own research, as well. If you really want to quit, it's extremely important that you know all the crap your body will be going through over the first couple weeks.
And always remember that the habit is more psychological than physical. Look into your options, then make a game plan.

 

[Nukey]

Do you smoke? What do you prefer to smoke?
I smoke, preferably light cigarettes although other than that I lack a preference.

Why do you smoke/why did you start?
I smoke because, at the time I started, it gave an opportunity to go out and just talk with some of my fellow students. A great way to socialize, actually, I still smoke because of the social aspect, although now it's mostly just to keep me awake.

How much do you smoke? Cigarettes per day (packs per day if relevant)

It depends, more often than not I have about three or so per week, not really a heavy smoker.

If you do smoke, do you enjoy it?

I do, the buzz is enjoyable not to mention it's very relaxing.

Do you smoke regularly? Or just occasionally?

I smoke sporadically.

Do you regret smoking?

Nope.

Do you think you are addicted to smoking?

No, not really. I'm able to go weeks without a cigarette if I have to, not to mention I never have experienced cravings for one before.

Was your school education on smoking accurate to the real thing, in your opinion?

No, a lot of lies and bullshit, really. I mean, if you smoke a pack a day, that's bad, but smoking on occasion won't hurt. It's sorta like beer in regards to self-harm.


Have you previously been a smoker, and quit? How was quitting?

I thought about quitting, but never did.

What's some advice you would give to a smoker for quitting?

If you think you're addicted, ween yourself off of it, going cold turkey will just mess with your head.

 

[Gauntes]

Yes, regularly
in fact, smoking one right now
prefer Camel Silver only because I'm used to it and I don't really like changing cigarette

 

[tzimize]

I smoked when I was around 13-14. For a few months. Quit because it is expensive as all hell, and stupid. Now I cant take tobacco. It makes me ill.

I do not regret trying it, it is one more experience I have. I am pretty damn glad I didnt continue smoking though.

I think people should be allowed to smoke if they want, it is their own body and their own right to ruin it if they want. When that is said, I am very grateful for restrictive norwegian smoking laws. Smoking is a bad habit that can damage other people as well (passive smoking), so if you wanna smoke, do so, but only when you are by yourself or someplace where you dont bother other people.

I think nothing special of smokers. Smoking is pretty stupid, so I can sometimes think people that smoke are stupid too. If you're gonna ruin your body, do it with something fun.

Smoking damages your body, a lot. While I think people should be able to do what they want, I still dont like that society pays for it (socialized health care). It pisses me off that people with for example more or less self-inflicted cancer is going to have equal rights to treatment as simply unlucky people. I'm not sure how to solve this, but maybe it would be cool with a "smoking insurance"? If you smoke, you have to pay extra taxes to pay for your inevitable bad health or something? I dont know, something along those lines.

 

[The Apothecarry]

1. I don't smoke.
2. Never tried it.
3. I don't mind smokers until they grab me and start constricting me
4. I think that people have the right to smoke and should be able to do so freely without legal restrictions
5. All I can say is that it's possible. I never smoke and never will because it triggers my asthma, but my uncle kicked the habit before he married my aunt.

 

[Queen Michael]

I don't smoke. Never have. I hate it when others smoke. "Do you have to get the air so filthy? I was planning to breathe it." That's my opinion. And yeah, it should be banned. Especially since it's so addictive. Using nicotine to force people to keep smoking when thet don't want to? Not really my idea of "right to choose".

 

[InfiniteSingularity]

I don't smoke. Never have. I hate it when others smoke. "Do you have to get the air so filthy? I was planning to breathe it." That's my opinion. And yeah, it should be banned. Especially since it's so addictive. Using nicotine to force people to keep smoking when thet don't want to? Not really my idea of "right to choose".

Assuming everyone who smokes doesn't want to smoke...

 

[DonMartin]

I smoke, but cigarettes taste like crap.

Now, THIS

Is something completely different.

Like one of the great thinker Einstein concluded, cigarette tobacco is crap compared to pipe tobacco. Also, it should be pretty obvious that a pipe-smoker only smokes his pipe occasionally. To relax and enjoy himself.


Pipesmokers, unite!

 

[Taldeer]

Do you smoke? What do you prefer to smoke?

I smoke. Cigarettes, hookah.

Why do you smoke/why did you start?

I started out of curiosity. I was 20 at the time, having avoided smoking during high school, and during the time my parents smoked. I was curious, given the fact that I had never hated smoking or smokers, I just didn't feel like trying until I was away from home.

How much do you smoke? Cigarettes per day (packs per day if relevant)

About one pack per day.

If you do smoke, do you enjoy it?

Yes, very very much.

Do you regret smoking?

I do not. I regret the fact that it might be hurting non-smokers, however the vast majority of my friends are smokers too. I don't act entitled about my smoking, and I will gladly respect any non-smoking rules, anytime.

Do you think you are addicted to smoking?

Yes, with the addenda that I think it's much more a question of psychology than physiology.

Was your school education on smoking accurate to the real thing, in your opinion?

Bill Hicks comes to mind here - no, no it wasn't. Smoking doesn't have to be uncivilized and I find it unfair that smokers are depicted as insensitive bastards. I never smoke without permission from my non-smoking friends, and I can control this habit for as long as I have to, any time, even though I've been smoking now for about 6 years. I don't see why banning tobacco is fair to people like me, who smoke mostly in their own home and in bars where smoking is allowed and there are special rooms for smokers and non-smokers.

 

[PleaseDele]

Do you smoke? What do you prefer to smoke?
L&M & Marlboro cigarettes. Also a dutch brand of losse tobacco

Why do you smoke/why did you start?
My experimental nature and desire to fit in: I was 15 and a bit nerdy. Started out with pot first so i figured I might aswell learn what the fuss is abotu with smoking.

How much do you smoke? Cigarettes per day (packs per day if relevant)
I easily smoke a big pack a day. On busy days it's less, but smoking 30 cigs isn't a challenge

If you do smoke, do you enjoy it?
Not always. After dinner, after sex, wakign up with some coffee: great moments. But also use it as a timekiller and that's not very enjoyable. Although I have noticed timekill smoking is a great networking tool sometimes. which is fun

Do you smoke regularly? Or just occasionally?
Fulltime chainsmoker when I get the chance

Do you regret smoking?
A fair bit. I don't regret it enough to quit, but health issues and money problems do add to the regret.

Do you think you are addicted to smoking?
I know I am addicted. I've been smoking for over 5 years now. My body is dependant on nicotine. The problem is mostly about it being a thing for me to do. Waiting on the bus? Smoke. Chillin at home? Smoke.

Was your school education on smoking accurate to the real thing, in your opinion?
Yes. peer pressure, experimentation and the deterioration of the human body... it's all true.

What is you opinion on other people smoking? Is it their right to choose?
Definitely our right too choose, but it's also a choice to be polite and adapt.

What do you think of smokers?
Some of us rawk

Do you think smoking should be banned, or sales of tobacco banned, or some sort of legal enforcement to halt smoking?
making smoking illegal would mean more black market. It's not gonna go away. I dont see good things come from this

Have you previously been a smoker, and quit? How was quitting?
Tried to, managed a month, exams came around, this repeated for abotu 6 times.

What's some advice you would give to a smoker for quitting?
Don't think of it as quitting, you'll last longer.

 

[The Lugz]

for people like me that cant tolerate airborne particulates of any kind
I highly recommend something along the lines of
http://www.respro.com/products/industrial/urban-environment/techno_mask/
I have the sportsta one, with carbon filters
they're about 90% effective against smoke, and as far as i can tell completely block dust and particles like it so perfect for anyone sensitive to that kind of thing