The Smokefree Advice Centre in Chatham.
Published: Thursday, 8th January 2026
A new campaign across the South East has launched this new year which aims to dispel a common myth about smoking being a way to relieve stress.
Launched by members of the South East Smokefree Alliance (SESA), which includes us and 17 other local authorities, the campaign is built on growing evidence that stopping smoking doesn’t just improve your physical health, but it can also make you happier.
Within weeks of quitting, people’s brains start to rebalance dopamine – known as the ‘happy hormone’ – which smoking suppresses from being created naturally.
As part of the campaign, our Stop Smoking Service will be hosting a stall at The Pentagon Shopping Centre, Chatham on Wednesday, 28 January.
Residents will be able to drop by the stall to find out about the support on offer, as well as take part in activities and conversation starters to help get people thinking and smiling. Local people will also be surveyed about what makes them happy, from simple pleasures like being outdoors or spending time with friends, to the deeper sense of calm that comes from taking care of themselves.
Journey to being smokefree
Cllr Teresa Murray, Deputy Leader of Medway Council and Portfolio Holder for Public Health, said: “Dispelling myths around smoking being a stress reliever is a powerful campaign, as it helps to break down one of the driving factors behind people continuing to smoke.
“It has been proven that when people try to quit smoking with support they are more likely to be successful, and we have an amazing team here at Medway Council who are on hand and ready to help you on your own journey to being smokefree.”
Brighter moods and calmer minds
Dr Sarah Milne, Lead of the South East Smokefree Alliance, said: “So many people believe smoking helps them cope with stress, but the truth is the opposite. Nicotine tricks your brain into thinking you need it to feel calm, when in fact it’s stealing your happiness and resilience.
“Within weeks of quitting, your brain starts to heal and your mood lifts naturally. The campaign brings together partners covering a population of over 9 million people to remind us that brighter moods and calmer minds are within reach, and that quitting smoking is one of the most powerful steps you can take to feel better.”
To learn more out about the South East Smokefree Alliance.