You don’t have to stop smoking in one day. Start with day one.

If you are a smoker, the most important thing you can do to improve your health is to quit smoking. Let the Great American Smokeout event on Nov. 15 be your day to start your journey toward a smoke-free life. Start with day one.

We know addiction to nicotine in cigarettes is one of the strongest and most deadly addictions one can have. Quitting is hard. It takes commitment and starts with a plan, often takes more than one quit attempt, and requires a lot of support. Getting help through counseling and/or medications can double or triple your chances of quitting successfully.

CentraCare Health is proud to participate in the American Cancer Society’s 43rd annual Great American Smokeout® event. We encourage everyone to commit or recommit to healthy, smoke-free lives — not just for a day, but year around.

Smokers are strongly advised to use proven cessation methods, such as medications or counseling, or a combination of both, to quit smoking. CentraCare Health has tobacco treatment specialists who are ready to support you with:

• Individual counseling
• Medication options to help you quit
• Personalized quit plans with ongoing follow-up and support

Ask for a tobacco treatment specialist appointment when calling 320-200-3200.

Support is important. Consider telling your family, friends, and co-workers that you are trying to quit. Someone who feels supported is more likely to quit smoking for good. Talk to your support about how they can best help you in your effort to become smoke-free. The Healthy Living Tobacco Cessation Support Group meets Wednesdays from 1-2 p.m. at Central Minnesota Mental Health Center in St. Cloud. Call 320-257-4222 for more information.

Quitting may not be easy. You can do it. We can help.

Take the first step today!