For Immediate Release:

Please contact:

Terry Krohn or Heather Easton

Two Rivers Public Health Department

701 4^th Avenue, Suite 1

Holdrege, NE  68949

308-995-4778

1-888-669-7154

November 15, 2010

 

 

Whether you are thinking about quitting smoking or chewing tobacco or are in the process of quitting, please join Two Rivers Public Health Department, in kicking the tobacco habit by participating in the Great American SmokeOut on Thursday, November 18, 2010. If past SmokeOuts are any indication, as many as one-third of the nation's 46 million smokers could be taking the day off from smoking.

Quitting tobacco is not easy, and some people try several times before succeeding.  The American Cancer Society believes there is no single best way, and tobacco users should try several methods to quit.  These can include:  step-by-step manuals, self-help classes or counseling, toll-free telephone based counseling programs, and/or using medication.  Tobacco users may also need to make changes in their routines to help them break their tobacco habits.  Below are some tips to help tobacco users in their attempt to quit:

·         Remove all tobacco-related materials (ashtrays, matches, chew cans, etc.) from your home, car, and office – it will help avoid temptation.

·         Tobacco urges are worst in the first two weeks.  They can last a few minutes at most, so practice the four Ds:

1.       Deep breaths

2.       Do something else to get your mind off the craving (call a friend, go for a walk, chew gum)

3.       Drink lots of water throughout the day

4.       Delay reaching for a cigarette or chew; the urge will pass

 

Other suggestions include:

 

·          Avoiding situations that encourage smoking or chewing.

·         Changing your routines. If you always light-up when you have a coffee – drink tea or juice instead.

There is help for Nebraska residents of all ages who want to quit. The Nebraska Tobacco Quit Line coaches help callers quit smoking or chewing tobacco. Quit Line coach’s work with each individual caller to develop a plan for when and how to quit tobacco use. Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW to access the Nebraska Tobacco Quit Line

 

Think about why quitting is important to you and stay focused on that.  Quitting is a lot easier if you are working towards a goal.  What is your reason for quitting tobacco today?  Remember, it can take several tries before you actually quit, the important thing is to KEEP TRYING.

 

For additional tips and support on quitting smoking or spit tobacco, contact Two Rivers Public Health Department at 1-888-669-7154 or visit the website at www.tworiverspublichealth.com.  Two Rivers has Quit Spit Kits available for those quitting the spit tobacco habit.