November 20th is the Great American Smokeout. If you are a smoker or have a family member who is, please join this important event. The CDC recommends these five steps to help you quit (http://www.cdc.gov/features/greatamericansmokeout/):
1. Set a quit date. Why not make the Great American Smokeout your quit day?
2. Share your plan with friends and family. Tell your family and friends you plan to quit and solicit their help. Ask them to join you for a smoke-free lunch or a movie to help distract you.
3. Anticipate temptations and how you will deal with them. The urge to smoke usually lasts for only three to five minutes but you need a way to get through those moments. Review some of the coping techniques in the blogs from the coaches and write down suggestions you find in the days before your quit day so you’ll be ready.
4. Remove all tobacco from your home, car, and office as well as matches, lighters, and ashtrays. Clean your car and home to get rid of tobacco odors.
5. Talk to your doctor about Nicotine patches or gum.
Share what you do to prepare. Let us know how well you do and if you decide to make this the start of becoming a non-smoker. We will support you on your journey!
