TAKE A DEEP BREATH- YOU CAN QUIT SMOKING!
The health department will sponsor a FREE smoking cessation group class this summer from 5-6 p.m., July 9-September 24 at Berlin Health Center, 9730 Healthway Drive. A “Motivation to Quit” class will be held 5-6 p.m. on July 9 at Berlin Health Center. Interested parties can register at this session or by calling the Worcester County Health Department at 410-632-0056.
Professionally trained instructors can help participants create a supportive environment to break the smoking addiction. Each individual will learn how to develop a customized plan for quitting. The smoking cessation course consists of seven sessions covering topics such as stress management, weight control, assertive communication, how to develop a quit plan, relapse prevention, and physical activity. Vouchers are available if a participant would like to add nicotine replacement therapy to their behavior change efforts. Nicotine replacement therapies covered by the voucher program include the patch, gum, and lozenge. Vouchers are also available to help offset the cost of CHANTIX for individuals meeting specific program requirements.
Instructors will teach a step-by-step method for changing behavior and quitting smoking. A registered dietitian will teach participants how to reduce weight gain when quitting smoking. The group approach uses positive thinking, alternative behaviors, and group support to help participants stop smoking.
As part of the course, the participants will learn how to identify triggers for relapse and how to develop a plan to prevent it. The course will teach you how to quit smoking and how to stay quit. You can become a non-smoker!