As we welcome the new year, many of us make resolutions to improve our health. But let’s face it: old habits can be hard to break. Whether it’s reaching for a cigarette, having that extra drink, or not prioritising our wellbeing, we often find ourselves caught in habit loops that seem impossible to escape.
But here’s the good news: breaking these loops and building healthier habits is possible — and we’re here to help!
Understanding the habit loop
Habits are formed through a simple loop: cue → routine → reward. For instance, a stressful day (cue) might trigger the habit of smoking or drinking (routine), which gives you the false impression of reducing stress (reward). This cycle repeats, reinforcing the behaviour over time. The key to breaking these cycles is to interrupt the loop — and replace it with something healthier.
Breaking the loop
To break habit loops, you need to identify and alter these components:
- Identify the cue: Recognise what triggers your habit. Is it stress, boredom, or social situations?
- Change the routine: Replace the unhealthy behaviour with a healthier one. Instead of smoking, try deep breathing exercises or a short walk.
- Find a new reward: Ensure the new behaviour provides a similar reward. If relaxation is your goal, find activities that help you unwind.
Building better habits
If you’re ready to break free from these habits in 2025, we offer several free programmes designed to support your journey to better health:
- Smoking cessation: Ready to quit smoking? Our programme helps you navigate the challenges of breaking the smoking habit with expert guidance, support, and Nicotine Replacement Therapy.
- Adult weight management: Whether you want to lose weight, improve your eating habits, or get more active, our weight management programme offers expert advice and community support.
- NHS Health Checks: Aged 40-75? Take control of your health with a check-up that can identify potential health risks and give you a roadmap to better habits.
- Alcohol reduction: If alcohol is a part of your routine that you’re looking to cut back on, our programme can help you reduce consumption in a sustainable way.
- Family healthy lifestyle programme: Make healthier lifestyle choices together as a family. Our family-oriented programme helps everyone in your household adopt better habits.
Start your journey today
This year is the perfect time to break old habit loops and form new, healthier ones. By addressing the triggers and rewards that drive your habits, you can replace negative behaviours with positive, lasting changes. Don’t do it alone — our free programmes are here to provide the support you need every step of the way.
Ready to make 2025 your healthiest year yet? Find out more about our free programmes and take the first step towards breaking the habit loop today!
