LIVING FREE FROM TOBACCO

Tobacco use of any kind- including smoking, smokeless tobacco, and e-cigarettes is harmful to your health and seriously impacts readiness. Sailors and Marines who use tobacco get sick more often, have poorer fitness test results, and deal with side -effects like fatigue, stress, illness and depression. Tobacco is an expensive addiction with a never-ending list of negative consequences.

Quitting tobacco is easier said than done, but luckily there are plenty of tools and proven methods available to helpyou can use on your journey to become tobacco free. Try a few below and figure out which works best for your lifestyle.

• In-Person: Support from military treatment facilities (MTF) and medical/dental personnel. Visit your local MTF, talk with a health provider or health promotion team member, or set up a meeting with a Tobacco Cessation Facilitator. Physicians and medical staff can connect you with support, counseling, education, and options such as nicotine replacement therapy and medications.
• Online: UCanQuit2. The Quit Tobacco – UCanQuit2.org website, https://www.tricare.mil/HealthWellness/Tobacco /UCanQuit2, offers information, support, and texting to help you be successful with your quit. You can also chat anonymously with tobacco coaches 24 hours a day, 7 days a week using the yellow bar in the bottom-right corner of any of the UCanQuit2 webpages. Any of these resources can be used independently or in conjunction with in-person support.
• On the Phone: Quitlines. Ready to quit but have some questions? There are plenty of Quitlines you can call for advice, resources, or just to talk. Call the national routing number to your state quiltine (1-800-QUIT-NOW) or check out the Freedom Quitline for TRICARE beneficiaries at 1-844-426-3733.
• In Your Pocket: Quit with your mobile device. Download a mobile app, sign up for text message alerts, or set reminders for yourself to stay on track. By using your phone, you can take support with you everywhere. And if you feel an urge to dip, trying playing a game to keep your hands and mind busy instead.
• Together: Quit with Friends. Make a pact with friends, shipmates, or others in your fleet to quit tobacco. Having people who understand what you're going through can help you succeed; you can share tips and tricks and support each other along the way.

Visit our website to learn more about tobacco cessation.