Is this year your “Quit Year?”

Today, many people that smoke will quit for at least a day in honor of the Great American Smoke Out. But what if a day turned into quitting forever?

For those that are able to do this, it could mean better health, more time with loved ones, more money in their pockets and would set a great example for kids.

The reality is, quitting tobacco is hard. If you are deciding whether or not this is the Quit Year for you, here are some steps that can increase the chances of successfully quitting.

' Fully commit to be done with tobacco. Choose a quit date and telling those close to you about your decision will help you with this step. Spend time leading up to your quit date writing down the times that you smoke, then set up support and hobbies for those moments when an urge may occur.

' Talk with your doctor and call Quitline Iowa (1-800-QUITNOW). Quitline Iowa is offering free lozenges, gum and patches to all Iowans that contact them and a doctor can assist with figuring out which combinations will best help.

' Be cautious about using electronic cigarettes to help you quit. Although early information may indicate e-cigarettes are better for your health than traditional cigarettes for their health, studies are limited and we don't know for certain there are no risks. Doctors have already stated that long term nicotine use, regardless of how it is ingested, can be harmful.

' Find other activities you enjoy. Exercise and healthier food and snack choices can also help you create a healthier lifestyle, overall.

In the end, quitting tobacco use will require determination. As a former smoker once said, 'you have to dig in for a fight.”

In the end, every quit attempt is different and any success should be celebrated. Some may need multiple attempts before they can finally say, 'I am a former tobacco user.” Good luck with this year's Great American Smoke Out!

' Curt Wheeler is a certified prevention specialist at Area Substance Abuse Counsel (ASAC) Prevention Services. Comments: cwheeler@asac.us