Q: I've tried to quit smoking countless times. What can I do to finally quit for good?

A: Quitting takes practice so keep trying. The average smoker tries to quit an average of 7 times before succeeding. There's lots of help out there. Check out where to get help below.

There are lots of things you can do to kick the smoking habit. Everyone is different. Try these suggestions - if something works - go for it!

• Cut back a bit at a time. Try cutting back one cigarette per day. You will cut back half a pack in about 2 weeks.
• Switch to light cigarettes, but be careful not to over inhale or cover up the filter with your fingers.
• Cut back one smoke break per day.
• Don't have coffee or tea with your cigarette - have juice or milk instead. You won't enjoy your cigarette as much.

• Canadian Cancer Society. (519) 254-5116 Smoker's Helpline or 1-877-513-5333 free!. Self-help booklets/videos are available for those trying to quit. Booklets include If You're a Man/Woman Who Wants to Quit... and One Step At A Time Program.  Cost:free.
• Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. 1-800-463-6273 (after hours). Fact sheets and pamphlets are available by fax or mail.
• Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario, Windsor-Essex County Chapter (519) 254-4345 or 1-888-HSF-INFO. Fact sheets and booklets are available.  
• Lung Association Essex County Region. (519) 256-3433 or 1-800-972-2636. The self-help booklet GET ON TRACK is available to those who are actively making changes to quit smoking and remain smoke-free. Cost: SMALL FEE.
• Sandwich Community Health Centre. (519) 258-6002. Free services include one-on-one counselling to support people who want to quit or have already quit smoking. Individuals must reside in the Sandwich Community area to be eligible for services.
• Windsor-Essex County Health Unit. (519) 258-2146 ext. 1249. Fact sheets and  pamphlets are available.
• Teen Health Centre (519) 253-8481.  The Teen Health Centre provides opportunities for adolescents to meet face to face with medical staff & discuss smoking cessation.  The Teen Health Staff presently distribute to youth the "Quit 4 Life" package of education material.  Call to book an appointment.

• Other Resources 
  Discuss medication options with your doctor or pharmacist.  Self-help books, audio cassettes and videotapes are available at bookstores and public libraries.                Visit www.joechemo.org for a fun resource.