Quit Tips

First of all - YOU CAN DO IT!  New York State has great resources to help smokers quit.  For more information, call 1-866-NYQUITS (1-866-697-8487) or visit www.nysmokefree.com today.  The Smokers' Quitline and website offer numerous resources to those trying to quit, including free nicotine patches, telephone coaching to help you live tobacco-free, downloadable support materials, and more.  Please reach out today and start your tobacco-free life!

We know how hard it can be to quit smoking.  Here, we've shared the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene's Quit Tips that can help make quitting a little easier.

10 ways to make quitting easier

1. Prepare yourself.
   Make a list of your reasons for quitting and read it often.
    
2. Pick a quit date.
   Get rid of ashtrays and lighters, and throw out all cigarettes.
    
3. Have a smoke-free car and home.
   It is healthier for others and will help you not smoke.
    
4. Get support and encouragement.
   Tell your family, friends, and coworkers that you are quitting, and ask for their support.
    
5. Get a quit buddy.
   Ask a smoker to quit with you, or find someone who has already quit who you can talk to for support.
    
6. Notice what makes you want to smoke.
   Alcohol, coffee, and stress can make you feel like smoking. So can seeing others smoke; ask smokers you know not to light up in front of you.
    
7. Think about using quit smoking aids and medications
   The nicotine patch or gum, and medications such as Zyban (bupropion) and Chantix (varenicline) greatly reduce your cravings and can double your chance of quitting successfully.
    
8. Help yourself cope.
   Drink a lot of water to help with cravings. Exercise to get rid of stress and improve your mood and health; a fast walk often does the trick.
    
9. Get your mind off smoking.
   Talk to a friend when you feel like smoking. Get busy with a simple task, eat a healthy snack, take a walk, or chew gum. Stay away from places and situations you associate with smoking.
    
10. Stay away from that first cigarette.
    Having even one can make you start up again. Cravings will decrease the longer you don't smoke.

In addition, if you are trying to help someone quit, your role is critical.  Click here to learn more about how to go about supporting someone else in their attempt to quit.