Preparing To Quit

NOW is a good time to embark on a lifetime of better health.

Take These Steps

1. Set a quit date. It is essential that you set a date and try to stick with it.
2. Sign a contract. Use the contract in the section of our Web site called Setting a Quit Date to formalize your promise to yourself. There will be times when you will have the urge to smoke. It will help you to think about your contract and especially about the rewards you will give yourself.
3. Get ready to quit. Being prepared can make all the difference in organizing a successful quit attempt. Use the countdown to your quit day.
4. Quit smoking on your quit day! Use the Quit Tips to help occupy your mind and body and reduce your chances of relapse.
5. Involve family, friends, and co-workers. The people around you can be very helpful to you in remaining smoke free for the first few days after your quit date.
6. If you have withdrawal symptoms, keep in mind that they will pass within a day or two. Many people experience an increase in appetite, nervousness or some irritability during the first two days after quitting. These symptoms will go away as your body gets used to not having nicotine.
7. Stay with your plan. If you have made preparations to keep yourself busy or have thought of ways to delay the urge for a cigarette, now is the time to use them.