Today, hardly any adult is unaware of the health hazards related to smoking. Yet almost 30% of Americans continue using some form of tobacco. The truth is that quitting smoking can be a lengthy, arduous journey. Each person has a different reason for why they smoke, so every “quit” must be based on the individual.
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas’s Well onTarget® tobacco cessation programs is part of the Round Rock ISD benefits program and provides free support to help lead a healthier life. The Well onTarget program offers methods to help learn to quit smoking, with one-on-one coaching, innovative lessons developed using the most current academic and medical research, and information about tools to quit smoking for good.
Here are four steps that can help you get started to quit smoking:
- Make the choice for yourself – Only you can decide to quit. Outline why quitting smoking is important and remind yourself of the reasons when you feel like giving in.
- Pick a date – Choosing a set date will hold you more accountable to yourself.
- Prepare for the day – Do not be naive about quitting “cold turkey.” Prepare for the day by telling your friends and family, removing all smoking-related items in your home, and planning substitutes (gum, things to munch on, etc.) Get support, and sign up for the Tobacco Cessation Program in the BCBS Well onTarget Portal. Or call 877-806-9380.
- Kick it for good – Quitting for life is no easy feat. The biggest tip is willpower and determination. Keep at it daily, remind yourself why you quit, continue to get support, be realistic, and do not give up if you slip and start smoking again. Keep trying.