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Is it really possible for me to quit smoking?

Many smokers use smoking to cope with the stresses and problems of everyday life.

  • It’s hard for smokers to think of a life without smoking until they learn new ways to manage stress and problems.

  • Remember that different methods work for different people.  What may seem silly to others may be just what you need to quit - so don't be embarrassed to try something new.

  • Pick a coping strategy that make sense to you and then follow through by practicing it.  It will get easier the more you practice.

  • When you are feeling stressed, use your new coping skills.

  • When you are ready to quit smoking, new coping skills will give you a much better chance of success.

                             

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Many smokers believe that stressful situations and problems in life is the reason that they smoke.  It is important to recognize that when your body withdraws from nicotine, you may feel anxious and stressed and want to smoke.  After a short time, these feelings will go away.  Don’t confuse withdrawal  symptoms with stress.

Ready to Quit?

Medications Can Help

Different kinds of medications are available to help you stop smoking.

 

  • They are all effective.

  • People who use medications to quit smoking are twice as likely to quit

  • People who use mdications to quit smoking gain less weight and have fewer withdrawl symptoms

  • There are 5 types of nicotine medications and 2 non-nicotine medications called bupropion (Zyban) and varenicline (Chantix).

  • Nicotine patch, nicotine gum and nicotine lozenge are available in stores without a doctor’s prescription.

  • Nicotine inhaler, nicotine nasal spray, bupropion (Zyban) and varenicline (Chantix) are available with a doctor’s prescription only and are covered by Medicaid in New Jersey.

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Ready...Set...Quit!

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READY...

  • Do not buy large amounts of cigarettes or other tobacco products.

  • Buy cigarettes one pack at a time so you can run out of cigarettes on your Quit Date.

  • Throw away ashtrays, lighters.

  • Remove ashes from your car and clean the car's interior.

  • Tell someone you are thinking about stopping smoking.  Let them know when your Quit Date will be so they can help you.

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Listen to a wellness podcast

Set a Quit Date

SET...

  • The Quit Date can be any day of the month but sometimes people like to choose a special day (birthday, anniversary) that has meaning for them.

  • It can be helpful to choose a Quit Date a few weeks from now, to give yourself some time to prepare.

  • Making preparations to quit smoking can help you to be more successful.

Call someone to get help.  In addition to family and friends that may be willing to help you, there are many professionals you already know that can help.  Go to the Resource List for more information.

Get Ready!

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QUIT!

Things to do instead of smoking

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Over the Counter

Prescription

Prescription Pills

IMPORTANT  POINT  TO  REMEMBER

Good News!

There are new guidlines provided by the Food & Drug Administration regarding the use of Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT).

  • Keep using if you slip up and have a cigarette.

  • Use beyond 12 weeks if needed to quit.

  • There do not appear to be significant concerns if smokers use nicotine replacement products in combination with another product, for example, a long acting skin patch with a short acting gum.

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