Not Even A Puff — Tips to Quit Smoking

Get Ready Set a quit date Change your environment by getting rid of all cigarettes and ashtrays Avoid people who are smoking Think about past attempts at quitting and review what worked and what did not Once you quit, don’t smoke - not even a puff Find Support and Encouragement Tell your family, friends and co-workers that you are quitting and would like their support. Ask them not to smoke around you. Talk to your health care provider about counseling (individual or group). It doubles your chance of success. Talk to your primary care provider about joining VA’s Quit Smart program. Call the New York State Quit Line for more information: 1-866-NY-QUITS (1-866-697-8487) Know Your Triggers - Learn New Skills and Behaviors Distract yourself - talk with someone, go for a walk, and stay busy Change your routine - use a different route to work, drink tea instead of coffee, etc. Reduce stress - take a hot bath, read, exercise, etc. Plan to do something enjoyable every day Drink plenty of fluids Do not allow yourself to come in contact with one of your triggers Get Medication and Use It Correctly Medications can help you stop smoking and reduce the urge to smoke Medications are available through the Quit Smart program Before purchasing any over the counter smoking cessation products, talk with your health care provider The right medication doubles your chance of quitting for good Be Prepared for Difficult Situations Relapses often occur within the first three months Most people try several times before quitting for good Be aware of some difficult situations: Alcohol - drinking lowers your chances of success Other smokers - may make you want to smoke Weight gain - many people who try to quit gain some weight (less than 10 pounds). Eat healthy and stay active. Bad mood - find new ways to improve your mood (other than smoking). For more information about quitting smoking, contact your primary care provider.

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