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At least 70 percent of smokers want to quit. So if you're in the first or second category, welcome to the club!

Smokers quit when they're ready. When they decide it's time, they must really want to quit smoking. But they also need to acknowledge that quitting takes a lot of effort and some planning.

Quitting is hard because your body craves the nicotine, or is addicted to tobacco. Giving it up is more than just kicking a bad habit. Your body has to stop craving the nicotine. Nicotine gum, lozenges, patches, and other medicines can help reduce the cravings without the harmful effects of tobacco.

You also have to change your habits. You may not even think about using tobacco. You just do it. You may chew tobacco when you are stressed. Or maybe you have a cigarette with coffee. Before you quit, think of new ways to handle these things. For example, call a friend or practice deep breathing when you feel stressed. Try chewing sugarless gum instead of lighting up.

• Get ready. You don't have to stop right away, but set a date that you plan to quit and tell others about it and how they can help you, including whether you want their encouragement or not.

• Pick a time when you won't have a lot of stress in your life.

• Get rid of ashtrays, lighters, or spit cups before you quit.

• Don't let people smoke in your house.

• Change your routine. For example, if you smoke after eating, take a walk instead.

• Use medicine. It can help with cravings and stress. You can buy nicotine gum, lozenges, or patches without a prescription. Your doctor can also give you medicine, such as bupropion (Zyban) or varenicline (Chantix). These are both covered by MassHealth. Using nicotine replacement products and/or medicine doubles your chances of quitting tobacco for good.

Get support. Seek help from stop-smoking programs, such as the American Lung Association's Freedom from Smoking program,
the ational tobacco quit line (1-800-QUIT NOW or 1-800-784-8669) or counseling from therapists (see list).

As soon as you stop, stay committed. Don't use tobacco at all. Having just one cigarette never helps. It only makes it harder.

QuitWorks - A telephone counseling, information, and referral service for Massachusetts residents who want to stop smoking. QuitWorks is part of the Try To Stop Tobacco Resource Center of Massachusetts.
 

A good summary of the various products that can help with smoking cessation.
 

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