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Want to quit smoking? Free resources are available to help“Stopping smoking is the easiest thing in the world – I’ve done it a hundred times”. If this Mark Twain quote describes you, you are not alone. Looking to quit? Take advantage of free resources available to help you finally reach that goal. "Smokers often decide to quit on the spur of the moment," says Kerri McCaig Team Leader for the NH Tobacco Reduction Strategy. "What we know is that taking the time to plan and prepare will increase a smoker’s chances of successfully quitting." This approach is emphasized in a unique program called NICC offered through Northern Health. The Nicotine Intervention Counselling Centre program provides free one-on-one support to smokers wishing to quit. The program involves working with a trained counselor to develop a personalized quit plan, use of nicotine replacement therapy (nicotine patch, gum), and regular telephone follow-up support. NICC counsellors in more than 20 communities throughout the North are available to provide support. Started in 2001, NICC has helped more than 3000 clients reach their smoke-free goal. To speak to a counsellor, please call the public health unit in your community. Those seeking to quit can also access another useful program, QuitNow, available free of charge to all BC residents. QuitNow is available online at www.quitnow.ca and by telephone (1-877-455-2233). Callers to Quit Now by Phone have access to specially trained registered nurses who help them create personalized quit programs. Quitnow.ca provides expert advice on quitting strategies, information about nicotine replacement products and access to an online community that offers peer support. >>> Interested in trying the NICC program or QuitNow? Click here The BC NurseLine can also provide general information on tobacco and how to quit smoking toll-free at 1-866-215-4700, or TTY at 1-866-889-4700 for the deaf and hearing-impaired. Staffed by registered nurses offering health information and advice, the line is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Translation services are available in 130 languages. For additional information, the BCHealthGuide OnLine and the BCHealthFiles are available at www.bchealthguide.org
For more information about how to quit smoking, please see the links below: |
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