The Great American Smokeout is Thursday, November 16. GLFHC’s Adolis Ramos, Program Manager of the Northeast Tobacco-Free Community Partnership, says that it’s a great day remind friends, co-workers and family about quitting smoking or vaping. Developed by the American Cancer Society, the Great American Smokeout is a day for people who use tobacco and nicotine to start their journey toward a nicotine-free life. It is a perfect opportunity to think about quitting and its many benefits–physically, mentally, and financially, and maybe even plan a quit attempt. Remember, quitting can take many tries and help is always available for anyone who uses tobacco or nicotine and who wants to quit, whether on November 16 or at any other time.
Stopping smoking, vaping, or using other tobacco or nicotine products takes time and courage, says Ramos. Encourage people to take the first step by calling 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669) to talk with a FREE quit coach or by enrolling online at mass.gov/quitting. 1-800-QUIT-NOW is Massachusetts’ tobacco and nicotine Quitline. The Quitline is open 24 hours each day, seven days a week (except Thanksgiving and Christmas) and experienced coaches are ready to help. They’ll share strategies to curb cravings, handle life’s big and small stresses, and tackle relapses.
In addition, 1-800-QUIT-NOW has a dedicated Spanish line (1-855-DÉJELO-YA) and interpreter services are available for 200 other languages, so language doesn’t need to be a barrier to getting support. And specialized supports are available for people who use menthol products, for pregnant people and for people facing mental health challenges.
To see a video about the Massachusetts Quitline, please click here. Visit mass.gov/quitting for more information and to access online or phone support. If you have any questions, you can contact Ramos at adolis.ramos@glfhc.org or 978-722-2865.