Stay Smoke-free: Ways to Quit

VA can help you quit for good

If you’ve tried before to quit and weren’t successful, don’t be discouraged. VA offers proven treatments to help Veterans successfully quit. Together, counseling and medication give you the best chance of quitting smoking. Learn more about how to quit and how VA can help.

Medication

Once you stop smoking, you may experience withdrawal symptoms or triggers that’ll make you want to smoke. That’s where medication can help. Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), like the nicotine patch or gum, can help curb your physical symptoms. By managing your cravings, you can go through your smoke-free life more smoothly.

If you’re trying to quit smoking, ask your provider about which medications might be right for you. Reaching out with a Secure Message is an easy way to start the conversation. 

Counseling

Over time, smoking becomes a part of your daily life. You might link smoking with everyday routines or feelings, which makes it harder to quit. Counseling gives you the skills to notice these triggers and develop strategies to resist smoking. Talk to your provider about the options available to you. Or call 1-855-QUIT-VET (1-855-784-8838) Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. EST, to talk to a quit coach.

Stay Quit Coach mobile app

When paired with counseling and medication, the Stay Quit Coach mobile app can provide extra support and help you stay on track. 

Stay Quit Coach has tools to help you manage stress, develop coping plans, and track your progress. You can choose to receive daily support messages and medication reminders. The app is free, secure, and easy to use. 

Getting started

When you’re ready to quit, send a Secure Message or schedule an appointment to talk to your provider about your options. For more information about the benefits of quitting and tips to help you quit, visit VA's Tobacco and Health webpage. 

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Read More

How to Quit (VA)

Build Your Quit Plan (SmokefreeVET)

SmokefreeVET Text (SmokefreeVET) 

Updated January 5, 2023