First, are you ready to set a date?

The process of ending tobacco use requires a series of choices and changes that lead to a goal. You have to know in your heart it is time, and your life is worth it. Many smokers find it helps to set a date when you will quit smoking for good. The process begins with a desire to stop, motivation to make changes, willingness to experience discomfort during withdrawal, and persistence in making changes in behavior and thinking to maintain your goal. Nearly 46 million people have successfully quit smoking and you can do it too!

Learning to live tobacco-free takes time. You may feel uncomfortable at first—but it will not last forever. You may wonder if the goal is really achievable or worth all the struggle. The feelings of loss and awkwardness are all part of the process but the rewards will be great. For assistance in quitting, call the Maine Tobacco Helpline at 1-800-207-1230. The Maine Tobacco Helpline provides free confidential counseling and a voucher for nicotine replacement therapy if your insurance does not cover these products or you have no insurance. Simply for calling you will receive a quit kit to help you get started.