Quitting

Quitting smoking can be hard, but there are ways to make it easier. Using quit-smoking medicines or counseling support can help you quit. In fact, using support and medicines together can make you three times as likely to quit for good! Most smokers have to try a few times before they quit for good.

But it pays off — half of all people who have ever smoked have quit! Ida from Dartmouth is one of those who did it. Watch her story about quitting.

If you're ready to quit, talk to your doctor. Your healthcare provider can help you decide which medicines would work best for you. Also, contact your health plan to find out if your insurance benefits will help cover the costs of medicines and counseling. To get help taking the first steps to quitting or for extra support after you quit, call the Massachusetts Smokers’ Helpline for free support and advice: 1-800-QUIT NOW (1-800-784-8669).

Watch more real stories from people who’ve quit, and then join the conversation about quitting.

If you prefer to get quitting help by text or online, here are some good options:

Teens: Download a free smartphone app to help you quit!

• QuitSTART (iPhone only)

Young Adults: Texting service for mobile phones — additional texting rates may apply.

• SmokefreeTXT 

Free Instant Messaging service for computer with internet access or smartphone.

• NCI's LiveHelp

You CAN quit smoking.