Let’s get started!
If you’re serious about your health, it’s time to quit thinking about quitting and start giving it a go. Get started by using the handy and helpful tips, links and resources below to help you get started.
Tips to get you started.
- Get rid of all the tobacco-related items in your home and car. Ashtrays, lighters, matches—if it reminds you of smoking, say goodbye to it.
- If you have a particular place in your home where you generally went to smoke, think about rearranging it. Move the furniture, try some new paint, add some new plants. Do whatever it takes to give the room new meaning to you.
- Keep healthy snacks around and drink lots and lots of water. Healthy snacking is a great way to stave off tobacco cravings. And it won’t hurt your figure either.
- Caffeine and alcohol can be strong smoking triggers, so try to avoid people, places or other habits you typically associate with smoking—at least for the first few weeks.
- Consider talking to your doctor about taking a prescription mediation, such as Zyban, that can help you control cravings.
- Nicotine replacement therapy, such as a nicotine patch, gum or lozenge, may also help.
- Joining a support group – whether in-person, online or by phone – has been shown to increase your chances of succeeding in your venture to quit.
- And finally, if you get discouraged (don’t worry- a lot of people get discouraged, we’re hoping this information will support you) don’t give up. Most people have to try five times to successfully quit smoking. It may take some doing, but you can most definitely do it.
Other Useful Resources
For more tips on quitting: www.lgbttobacco.org/treatment.php
For tips on how to help a loved one quit: www.lgbttobacco.org/support.php
National LGBT Tobacco Control Network: www.lgbtttobacco.org
National Coalition on LGBT Health: www.lgbthealth.net
Nicotine Anonymous: www.nicotine-anonymous.org