Quit-Smoking Programs

Overview

A good quit-tobacco program can help you quit by providing support and encouragement. Programs are available for you to attend in person, by telephone, or online. Most state health departments can recommend a program in your area. Quit-tobacco programs are also called tobacco cessation programs.

When looking for a program:

Look for a program that's led by someone who has had training in helping people quit tobacco.
Avoid any program that promises to make quitting easy or that sounds like it has the only answer or a secret method that works better than any other method. There are no "magic bullets."
Change your quit date to match the program date. In many communities, programs are only offered 2 or 3 times a year. Keep this in mind as you plan your timeline for quitting.

In-person programs

Good in-person programs for quitting:

Have at least 4 to 7 sessions that include self-help materials and individual or group counseling.
Have sessions that last at least 20 to 30 minutes.
Last at least a month past your quit date. Some programs spend several weeks preparing for the quit date. A program is often most useful after you have quit.
Are affordable. Many programs are free or low-cost. Others cost more. Some health insurance companies or employee assistance programs (EAPs) cover the cost of quit-tobacco programs.

Telephone programs

Phone-based programs link callers to trained counselors. They can help you put together a quit plan that's tailored for you, and they can also help you avoid common problems. One resource that's available for free is the national tobacco quitline: 1-800-QUIT NOW (1-800-784-8669).

Online programs

Online quit-tobacco programs may work for you if your schedule doesn't allow you to attend in-person programs. There are many programs that offer resources to help you quit. See www.smokefree.gov for one example.

Text messaging

Some programs send encouraging, informative text messages several times a day. Go to www.smokefree.gov and look for SmokefreeTXT.

Current as of: August 20, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC StaffIgnite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review BoardClinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

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