2022 New Year’s Resolution: Join a Class to Quit Nicotine!

By Diane Lee, Public Information Officer, Garrett County Health Department

Who would have thought that 2021 would pretty much be a do over of 2020, with COVID-19 continuing to take a toll on life and loved ones? The pandemic continues to put many things into perspective, including what should be on our New Year’s resolution list.

There’s a lot we cannot control in today’s world, but when it comes to your own health, you do have some choices to make. The pandemic has made it clear that an unhealthy body allows illnesses an unfair advantage. For anyone addicted to nicotine, regardless of whether it is in the form of cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, or vaping, kicking the habit should be at the top of your health priorities for 2022.

One way to increase your chances of quitting is to join a Quit Now class at the Garrett County Health Department. There are two classes starting in January 2022 and running for 6 weeks each.
• Wednesday, Jan. 5 – Feb. 9, at 6 p.m. at the Garrett County Health Department in Oakland
• Thursday, Jan. 6 – Feb. 10, at 6 p.m. at Swanton Community Building

“This class is completely free for you, and designed to help you stop using all types of tobacco, including cigarettes, smokeless, and electronic smoking devices,” said Lori Peck, Certified Tobacco Treatment Specialist at the Garrett County Health Department. “Throughout the six-weeks of classes, you will receive resources to help you change your habits, including free cessation aids.”

There is not a magic method that works for everyone; some people think it is easier to quit all at once, while others prefer to cut back gradually. Whatever way you may decide to try, here are some tips for quitting. First, make a list of why you want to quit – what’s in it for me? You can use the list for motivation. Second, try to stay away from other smokers as much as you can for a while. Being around other smokers and inhaling the secondhand smoke will only make it harder. Third, find something else to do instead of smoking, like taking a short walk. The urge will pass and walking helps improve your overall health.

If you can’t quit on your own, in addition to the Quit Now classes, the health department also offers individual counseling and virtual counseling to those who are interested. If you are thinking about quitting, contact Lori by calling 301-501-8574, or email her at [email protected]. Registration is also available online at www.KickingTobacco.com.