LEWISTON, IDAHO -With the cost of tobacco soaring and more smoke-free policies surrounding us, today is the best day to start your tobacco-free life. The thought of giving up cigarettes, cigars, or chewing tobacco might be intimidating, but there are many resources to help you along the way.
Tobacco Cessation Classes
Public Health - Idaho North Central District offers free tobacco cessation classes to Idaho residents through the Millennium Tobacco Cessation Program. Classes are held in Clearwater, Idaho, Latah, Lewis and Nez Perce Counties. The classes focus on different quitting techniques, benefits of being smoke-free, coping strategies, relapse prevention, and much more. Some instructors offer one-on-one sessions, while others provide group classes. The sessions typically last one-hour and participants receive items such as water bottles and stress balls to help relieve withdrawal symptoms. Call 208-799-3100 for the class location nearest you.
Nicotine Replacement Therapy
With the cost of a 4-week supply of nicotine patches ranging from $80 to $100, many people may avoid this helpful cessation aid. Fortunately, Idaho smokers can request free Nicotine Replacement Therapy through the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare’s Project Filter.
Tobacco users can request a 4-week supply of nicotine patches, gum or lozenges by calling 1-800-QUIT-NOW or logging on to www.idaho.quitnet.com. Idaho QuitLine is a free telephone counseling service designed to help tobacco users quit. Idaho QuitNet is a free internet service that has been successful in helping tobacco users quit their habit by offering online support from fellow tobacco users and professional counselors.
How to Get Started
Now that you’ve learned about resources to help you quit tobacco, it’s time to make the decision to quit. Once you know you’re ready, you should set a quit date and make a plan. Keep in mind that Nicotine Replacement Therapy, along with cessation counseling can double tobacco quit rates. It is also important to know that most people who quit weren’t successful on their first attempt, so don’t get discouraged if you have a setback. One of the most difficult parts of quitting is coping with withdrawal. To help deal with urges and cravings, remember the 4-D’s of quitting: Delay, Drink water, Deep breathe, Do something else. Quitting tobacco is the most important thing you can do for your health, so don’t give up.
The free cessation classes and nicotine replacement therapy are made available through money from Idaho’s Millennium Fund targeted by the Idaho Legislature.
To learn more about these resources and how to quit using tobacco, contact Public Health Idaho North Central District at 208-799-3100 or go to www.idahopublichealth.com.