Quit Tips
If you’ve been smoking or chewing tobacco for years, you may think it’s impossible to quit. Not true. You can do it, and here are a few tips to show you how.

Remember why you’re quitting. Quit tips are reminders about what’s important – the fact that you’ve decided to quit tobacco. These simple suggestions can help get you through the cravings and keep you on the right track.

  • Call OhioQuits at 800-QUIT-NOW or SCHEDULE A CALL. The best thing you can do is talk with an expert. If you’d prefer a local community quit class, QUIT LINE can refer you to a program nearby.
  • Use nicotine patches – they’re a great way to get your body ready to quit tobacco for good. Call OhioQuits, to see if you can get FREE nicotine patches through your health insurance or employer. If you don’t have health insurance, you qualify for REDUCED COST patches.
  • Remove all evidence of smoking from your life. Launder all your clothes to remove the smell of smoke. Clean your car’s interior and put away all ashtrays.
  • Have your teeth cleaned.
  • Write down all the reasons you’re quitting, and post them all over your home or workplace as constant reminders why quitting is so important. Click here for a handy online tool that will help you list your reasons and print them out.
  • Tell your friends and family that you’re serious about quitting, and enlist their support.
  • Find a “quitting buddy.” It’s easier to quit if you have someone to support and motivate you. If your quitting buddy is a co-worker, you can help keep each other from using tobacco during breaks.
  • Remember that it’s natural and normal to feel anxiety any time you make a significant life change.
  • Plan ahead for inevitable temptation.
  • Eat small meals frequently to help stabilize your blood sugar level.
  • Carry a water bottle with you wherever you go. Drinking a lot of water keeps you hydrated and helps fight off tough tobacco cravings.
  • Cut down on alcohol and caffeine consumption.
  • Keep your mouth and hands busy by having healthy snacks like carrots, raisins and hard candy available.
  • Chew gum. Keep a pack of gum with you wherever you go. Gum is a great oral substitute during a tough tobacco craving.
  • Carry a stress ball or doodle pad.
  • Change your daily routine. Take a new route to work, drink tea instead of coffee, or have lunch in a conference room rather than at your desk.
  • Exercise often, especially when you’re bored, angry or stressed.
  • Spend as much time with ex- or non-tobacco users as possible.
  • Reward yourself by planning to buy something special with all the money you save.