Great American Smokeout Help

ENID, OK — Smokers Garfield County and across Oklahoma are encouraged to quit tobacco for a day, or a lifetime, during the Great American Smokeout on Thursday, Nov. 17. The event symbolizes a new beginning for many tobacco users since the 1970s, and this year includes a limited-time offer providing added incentive to Oklahomans thinking about quitting tobacco.

Oklahomans who sign up for the Helpline's All Access plan get eight weeks of free patches, gum or lozenges, plus five quit coach calls if they register by Nov. 30.

“Tobacco users need critical support on their journey to quit, and the Great American Smokeout offers an opportunity to build a better, healthier life,” said Stephanie Pendergraft, TSET Healthy Living Program Coordinator serving Garfield County “Quitting can be hard, but support and a thoughtful quit plan increase the chances of success. The Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline provides free resources and support to all Oklahomans who want to quit tobacco and take control of their health.”

The Helpline encourages Oklahomans to start small and finish big during the Great American Smokeout by acknowledging successes and tackling tobacco cravings head-on. The Helpline offers tips for beating cravings and getting ahead of stressors at OKhelpline.com.

In addition to tips and resources online, the Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline provides free services, including text and email support and free patches, gum or lozenges. Additionally, Quit Coaches are available 24/7 to assist in creating a customized quit plan.

There is no one-size-fits-all solution to quitting tobacco. However, the Helpline’s evaluation results show that those who work with a Quit Coach and use the full range of services available have the best chance of quitting.

Call 1-800-QUIT NOW (1-800-784-8669) or visit OKhelpline.com to explore all the free services and resources available to Oklahomans. Connect with the Helpline through social media by liking the Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline on Facebook or following @OKhelpline on Twitter and Instagram.

About 42 million Americans still smoke cigarettes, and tobacco use remains the single largest preventable cause of disease and premature death in the United States. As of 2013, there were also 12.4 million cigar smokers in the US, and over 2.3 million who smoke tobacco in pipes — other dangerous and addictive forms of tobacco.

By quitting — even for one day — you will be taking an important step toward a healthier life — one that can lead to reducing your cancer risk. It’s a race for your health, and it starts today. Today’s the day that quitters win. Here is a 5-day plan from INTEGRIS Bass Tips for the Great American Smokeout.

5 Days Before Your Quit Date

• Think about your reasons for quitting.
• Tell your friends and family you are planning to quit.
• Stop buying cigarettes.

4 Days Before Your Quit Date

• Pay attention to when and why you smoke.
• Think of other things to hold in your hand instead of a cigarette.
• Think of habits or routines to change.

3 Days Before Your Quit Date

• What will you do with the extra money when you stop buying cigarettes?
• Make a list of non-edible treats that you can give yourself starting the first day of not smoking.

2 Days Before Your Quit Date

• Contact family and friends who have quit smoking, let them know what you are going to do and ask them if you can call if you need support over the next few weeks.
• Make a list of their names and telephone numbers so that you can refer to it at any time.

1 Day Before Your Quit Date

• Put away lighters and ashtrays.
• Clean your clothes to get rid of the smell of cigarette smoke.
• Smoke your last cigarette. Then, throw away all cigarettes and matches.

Quit Day

• Go to your favorite relaxing (acupuncture, massage) appointment in the morning.
• Keep very busy.
• Remind family and friends that this is your quit day.
• Stay away from alcohol.
• Give yourself a treat, or do something special.