Planning to Quit Smoking

Your doctor may have told you that you need to give up tobacco. Only you can decide if and when you are ready to quit. Quitting is hard to do. But the benefits will be worth it. When you  decide to quit, come up with a plan that’s right for you. Discuss your plan with your doctor. And talk to your doctor about medications to help you quit.

Line Up Support

To quit smoking, you’ll need a plan and some help. Pick a date within the next 2 to 4 weeks to quit. Use the time between now and that date to arrange for support.

• Classes and counselors: Quit-smoking classes coach people like you through the process. Get to know others in a class, and support each other beyond the class. Telephone counseling also helps you keep on track. Ask your healthcare provider, local hospital, or public health department to put you in touch with a class and a phone counselor.

• Family and friends: Tell your family and friends about your quit date. Ask them to support your change. If they smoke, arrange to see them in smoke-free places. Forbid smoking in your home.

Nicotine Replacement Products

There are many products that can help you quit smoking. Some of them contain nicotine. This highly addictive substance is found in cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco. Nicotine replacement products slowly lessen the level of nicotine your body absorbs. These products include a nicotine patch, gum, nasal spray, and inhaler. Be sure you follow the directions carefully. Do not smoke while you use nicotine products. Doing so can be very harmful to your health.