As a long-time smoker living in the UK, I have seen first-hand the impact of cigarettes on society. From the warnings on television commercials and the graphic images on packaging, to the changes in legislation and social attitudes, cigarettes remain a hotly debated and controversial topic. In this article, I will share my personal experiences and observations on the culture of smoking in the UK.

Growing up in the 90s, smoking was still widely accepted and commonly seen as a normal part of everyday life. I remember seeing people smoking indoors in restaurants, on public transport, and even in hospitals. As a teenager, I was bombarded with images of glamorous models and celebrities smoking in magazines and on billboards. It was everywhere, and it seemed like the cool thing to do.

I started smoking when I was 18, partly out of curiosity and partly because it was a rebellious act against societal norms. At the time, I didn’t think about the potential consequences or health risks. It was all about fitting in and feeling like I belonged to a certain clique.

As I entered my 20s, I noticed a gradual shift in public perception towards smoking. The smoking ban in public places was introduced in 2007, making it illegal to smoke in enclosed public spaces such as bars, restaurants, and offices. Although it was met with some resistance, it soon became the norm and I found myself stepping outside to smoke along with other smokers.

I also started to become more aware of the health risks associated with smoking. The warnings on packs of cigarettes became more noticeable and alarming, but I brushed them off as I was still in denial about the potential impact on my own health.

As the years went by, I saw more and more people giving up smoking and fewer young people starting. The introduction of plain packaging in 2016, which removed all branding and replaced it with graphic images and health warnings, further reinforced the negative connotations of smoking. Gone were the days of flashy cigarette packets that projected a certain image and appealed to young people.

I started to feel a sense of shame and guilt when I lit up a cigarette in public. People would give disapproving looks, and even friends and family would comment about the negative effects of smoking whenever I lit up. It became harder and harder to find places where I could smoke without feeling stigmatized.

The price of cigarettes in the UK is also a factor that cannot be ignored. In 2019, the average price of a pack of 20 cigarettes was around £10, making it one of the most expensive countries in the world to buy cigarettes. As a smoker, this has a significant impact on my finances, and I have seen many of my friends give up smoking due to the cost.

However, despite all the negative changes, smoking is still prevalent in the UK. According to a survey by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), in 2019, approximately 14.7% of adults in the UK smoked. This shows that despite all the efforts to discourage smoking, it remains a widely accepted habit for a significant portion of the population.

One of the reasons for this could be the addictive nature of cigarettes. Nicotine, the main ingredient in cigarettes, is a highly addictive substance and can be extremely difficult to quit. I have tried to quit multiple times, but have always found myself going back to smoking due to cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

Another factor that contributes to the continued popularity of smoking could be the social aspect. As a smoker, I have formed friendships based on our shared habit. Smokers often congregate together outside of buildings and strike up conversations, forming a sense of community and camaraderie.

Smoking has also become a ritual for many people. Whether it’s the morning cigarette with a cup of coffee, or the after-dinner smoke, it becomes ingrained in daily life. Breaking this habit can be challenging as it is intertwined with everyday routines.

Despite all the challenges of smoking, I have also found comfort and relaxation in it. As someone who deals with anxiety, the act of smoking can provide a temporary release and calmness. However, I am also aware that this is a false sense of relief and comes with many long-term health risks.

In recent years, there has been an increase in alternative methods of smoking such as e-cigarettes and vaping. These products claim to be a healthier alternative to traditional cigarettes, but there is still ongoing research on their long-term effects. I have tried them in the past, but they did not give me the same satisfaction as a traditional cigarette.

In conclusion, the culture of smoking in the UK has changed significantly in the past decade. From being a widely accepted and glamorized habit, it has now become heavily stigmatized and restricted. As a smoker, I can see both sides of the argument. While I understand the concerns about health risks and the need to protect non-smokers from second-hand smoke, I also feel that there should be more support and understanding for those who struggle to quit.

Smoking is a personal choice, and despite the efforts to discourage it, it remains a personal decision for many. As with any addiction, it is a complex issue that requires understanding and support rather than judgment and shame. As for myself, I am aware of the risks and continue to struggle with the habit, but I also respect the choices of non-smokers and do my best to be considerate in public spaces. Only time will tell how the culture of smoking will continue to evolve in the UK.