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25.01.2022 Your GP is an excellent first point of contact if youre thinking about quitting smoking. Your GP can not only give you a script for stop-smoking medications and answer general questions about quitting smoking, they can also offer encouragement and support along the way and chat to you about any worries you might have. Its particularly important to chat with your GP if you have a health condition, are pregnant or are taking any other medications, since some medication dosages may need adjusting before you stop smoking. Your GP can also make a referral for you to Quitline, which means a Quitline counsellor can give you a call for free to offer you further support at a time that suits you. For more info on chatting with your GP about quitting smoking, head to https://www.quit.org.au//talking-to-your-doctor-about-qui/

24.01.2022 The results of the latest National Drug Strategy Household Survey have shown that the proportion of smokers in Victoria has halved over the last two decades! Now, 9 out of 10 Victorian adults do not smoke daily and almost two-thirds of Victorians have never smoked! Thats fantastic news for the health of our communities. Also excellent news is that compared to 2007, an additional 200,000 Victorians in 2019 are ex-smokers. That means in the past 12 years, at least 200,000 Vict...orians have quit smoking! If youre thinking about quitting or just want to know what supports are out there, were here to help. Give us a call on 13 7848 Mon - Fri, 8am -8pm and chat with a qualified Quitline counsellor for informative, personalised and non-judgmental support. You can also fill out a call back form and well give you a call back at a time that suits you: https://www.quit.org.au/request-callback/

24.01.2022 "I gave up on 16 March. Have saved heaps of $. Feel much healthier also. With stopping in isolation, Ive really noticed the difference. Give it a go. I know its not easy but if you have the right mindset youll be able to do it. May need to alter routine though. One thing I found useful, and it will sound twee, but instead of a coffee mug use a cup and saucer - cup in one hand, saucer in the other instead of a cigarette. Keeps your hands busy. It actually works." A.N., Face...book community member. More tips? Visit our Quit Tips Hub https://bit.ly/2UXFi7i If youre thinking about stopping smoking, now is the perfect time to give it a go. Without the common triggers to smoke like after-work drinks, or a Sunday session at the pub, people who want to quit can begin creating new routines, taking the first step towards a life without smokes. Check out our Quit Tips Hub for more info, tips and tools or give Quitline a call on 13 7848, Monday to Friday, 8am to 8pm.

24.01.2022 If you have questions about coronavirus, COVID-19 and smoking, you may find it helpful to read our FAQs: https://www.quit.org.au//faqs-coronavirus-covid-19-and-sm/ Also, a note to say we are here to support you. Quitline counsellors are available on the phone Monday Friday 8am 8pm. They can provide personalised, non-judgmental and empathetic support to help you quit, or just answer questions you may have about quitting in general. Quitline is an inclusive and culturally... safe space for all, including the LGBTIQA+ community. We also offer Aboriginal Quitline, for people who smoke identifying as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander. To access Aboriginal Quitline, call 13 7848 and ask to speak with one of our friendly and qualified Aboriginal Quitline counsellors. We also have an interpreter service available if you speak a language other than English. You can also explore our website at quit.org.au for more info, tips and tools to help you wherever you are along your quitting journey.

24.01.2022 How much money will you save from the day you quit smoking? How could you use this money to help improve your quality of life? Start planning for a healthier, and wealthier, future. Use our online Cost of Smoking tool to calculate how much cigarettes have cost you and how much you could be saving if you quit smoking. https://www.quit.org.au/tools/cost-smoking/ If youd like to chat about quitting smoking, Quitline counsellors are available on the phone on 13 7848, Monday Friday 8am 8pm. They can provide personalised, non-judgemental and empathetic support to help you quit, or just answer any general questions you may have about quitting smoking.

24.01.2022 Over the years we’ve learnt a lot about how to stop smoking from those who know people who have stopped smoking for good. What we have learnt is in our newly updated and editable Quit Because You Can booklet. Download it, type in it, underline parts that are important to you and flick to your favourite pages easily. It's your book. Download your free copy today (PDF): https://www.quit.org.au/articles/quit-because-you-can/

24.01.2022 This Saturday, 14 November, is World Diabetes Day. Did you know that smoking increases the risk of type 2 diabetes? By stopping smoking, you reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes over time. Some studies suggest that after 10 years of staying quit, a person's risk of type 2 diabetes is the same as someone who has never smoked. If you live with diabetes and smoke, smoking can increase the risk of diabetes-related complications - complications that can stop you from living the lif...e you want. These include heart disease, stroke, diabetes-related kidney disease, nerve damage and eye disease. Stopping smoking is the best thing you can do for your health. By stopping smoking, you can reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes over time. If you live with diabetes and smoke, stopping smoking can reduce your risk of diabetes-related complications. If you'd like to chat about stopping smoking, or have general questions about quitting, speak with one of our friendly Quitline counsellors on 13 7848. Quitline counsellors can offer empathetic and tailored support, whether you're ready or not to stop smoking. #worlddiabetesday

23.01.2022 "I started having hot water with lemon each morning instead of tea or coffee and made myself have a shower as soon as I woke up, no matter what. These little things help because they remind you that you are living/about to live a different kind of life. A better life. You can do it!" - Peta For more simple ways to keep your mind off smoking (from people whove quit) visit https://www.quit.org.au//5-simple-ways-keep-your-mind-smo/ If youre thinking of stopping smoking, chat... with one of our qualified Quitline counsellors on 13 7848, Mon - Fri 8am - 8pm. Quitline provides non-judgmental, empathetic and tailored support to help you along your quitting journey. Quitline is a culturally inclusive service for all, including the LGBTIQA+ community. We also have Aboriginal counsellors available as well as an interpreter service for people who speak languages other than English. See more

23.01.2022 "I started smoking when I was 9 years old. Peer pressure from older kids. I tried to quit many times over the years. I finally quit for good around 8 to 10 years ago, when in my 40's. I can't tell you exactly when I stopped smoking, as I found myself going "that's 1 week, 1 month". It was like I was timing how long I could go before I had another smoke. So I just started telling people, "oh I gave them up, I am a non-smoker". I still get cravings though make the choice to ...say no." - Judy If you name it, you're more likely to stay quit. Find out more about the power of calling yourself a non-smoker by clicking this link: https://www.quit.org.au//power-calling-yourself-non-smoker/ Thank you to Judy, a member of our Facebook community who decided to share her story of stopping smoking. If you'd like to share your story, tips or tricks on stopping smoking, please comment below or email us at [email protected]. If you'd like to chat about stopping smoking, or have general questions about quitting, speak with one of our friendly Quitline counsellors on 13 7848. Quitline counsellors can offer personalised and practical support, whether you're ready or not to stop smoking.

23.01.2022 Whether youre quitting smoking for the first time, or having another go at quitting smoking, check out our five best tips to help you quit for good: https://www.quit.org.au/articles/getting-ready-quit/

22.01.2022 There are many quitting options and methods out there. How do you decide what's best? Watch the video to learn more about the different types of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT): nicotine patches, gum, mouth spray, lozenges and inhalator. Its also a good idea to speak to your doctor or pharmacist before starting NRT, so they can help you work out which types will suit you best. For more info head to https://www.quit.org.au//nicotine-replacement-therapy-fre/ If you're thi...nking of stopping smoking, chat with one of our qualified Quitline counsellors on 13 7848, Mon - Fri 8am - 8pm. Quitline provides non-judgmental, empathetic and tailored support to help you along your quitting journey. Quitline is a culturally inclusive service for all, including the LGBTIQA+ community. We also have Aboriginal counsellors available as well as an interpreter service for people who speak languages other than English. See more

22.01.2022 Ricky, one of our Facebook readers, quit smoking 8 months ago today after countless attempts over 40 years. Heres what he said about the benefits hes experienced: Gosh where do I start. I used to use an asthma inhaler up to 20 times a day, now I use it once a day!!! I can breathe freely, I walk and run every day, I get fewer headaches and migraines, I dont smell (my partner loves that lol), no dark rings under my eyes, skin is A1. Still get cravings now and then, but I am determined to not go backwards since Ive come this far. Oh, and more money in my pocket is a good thing! Never Give Up Giving Up." To chat to a qualified Quitline counsellor about quitting smoking, or to ask general questions about quitting, call 13 7848, Monday to Friday 8am - 8pm, or visit quit.org.au

22.01.2022 Did you know that by stopping smoking, you not only save money, reduce your stress levels and improve your wellbeing, you also reduce your risk of diseases like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)? COPD is an umbrella term for a group of lung conditions including emphysema, chronic bronchitis and chronic asthma. COPD limits air flow in the lungs and makes it harder to breathe. It can make it more challenging to live the life you want. Stopping smoking reduces your ri...sk of COPD. For people diagnosed with COPD, stopping smoking makes it less likely they’ll need to go to hospital because of their COPD, and reduces their use of COPD medications. Stopping smoking can make it easier to live with COPD. Today is World COPD Day. If you or a friend or family member are living with COPD, you may find it helpful to download Lung Foundation Australia’s Live Your Best Life with COPD resource pack here: https://lungfoundation.com.au/get-involved//world-copd-day/ If you'd like to chat about stopping smoking, or have general questions about quitting, speak with one of our friendly Quitline counsellors on 13 7848. Quitline counsellors can offer empathetic and tailored support, whether you're ready or not to stop smoking. @GOLD_COPD

21.01.2022 Even though direct advertising and promoting tobacco and e-cigarette products is banned in Australia, tobacco and e-cigarette companies get around these bans by adopting devious marketing tactics that expose children and teenagers to imagery of their products. These tactics include using paid influencers to promote their products on social media, installing product placement across streaming services, and funding groups which advocate for the loosening of restrictions on avai...lability and use. These tactics are designed to get a new generation of customers hooked on nicotine. As part of World No Tobacco Day today, the Victorian Government has announced it has commissioned Quit to develop new resources highlighting how tobacco and e-cigarette companies target children. Read more about World No Tobacco Day here: https://www.quit.org.au//exposing-predatory-marketing-chi/ #worldnotobaccoday

21.01.2022 Brad smoked at least 20 cigarettes a day for many years and had tried quitting many times without succeeding, until the day he realised the impact smoking was having on his ability to achieve what he wanted in life. Now completely smoke-free, Brad believes quitting not only helped his physical health - he stopped wheezing very quickly - but his mental health too, and that quitting smoking is the best thing hes ever done. Watch his full story here: https://www.quit.org.au//brad-quit-smoking-achieve-very-s/

21.01.2022 Your GP is an excellent first point of contact if you're thinking about quitting smoking. Your GP can not only give you a script for stop-smoking medications and answer general questions about quitting smoking, they can also offer encouragement and support along the way and chat to you about any worries you might have. Its particularly important to chat with your GP if you have a health condition, are pregnant or are taking any other medications, since some medication dosages may need adjusting before you stop smoking. Your GP can also make a referral for you to Quitline, which means a Quitline counsellor can give you a call for free to offer you further support at a time that suits you. For more info on chatting with your GP about quitting smoking, head to https://www.quit.org.au//talking-to-your-doctor-about-qui/

20.01.2022 Click the link below for 3 simple exercises, from our Quitline counsellors, to help ease anxiety, stress or worry, or to help get through cravings to smoke. Everyone is being challenged in their own way right now. A tiny moment - every now and again - to take care of your inner mind, can make a positive difference to how you work through it all. https://www.quit.org.au//3-best-relaxation-tricks-ease-st/

20.01.2022 Amanda smoked 10 - 12 cigarettes a day for two years before quitting with the help of a Quitline counsellor. Because of quitting smoking, she was able to save enough money to buy a car. To watch Amanda chat about her experience with quitting - and for quit tips and info - click here https://bit.ly/38yfuUW.

20.01.2022 We know that current COVID restrictions can increase peoples feelings of worry, stress and anxiety. But it is possible to make physical distancing work for you. Without the common triggers to smoke like after-work drinks, or a Sunday session at the pub, people who want to quit can begin creating new routines, taking the first step towards a life without smokes. Now is the perfect time to quit. Check out our Quit Tips Hub for information, tools and tricks to help you achieve your quitting goals. https://bit.ly/38yfuUW

20.01.2022 Here are a few of our Quitline counsellors. If you're thinking of stopping smoking, chat with one of our qualified Quitline counsellors on 13 7848, Mon - Fri 8am - 8pm. Quitline provides non-judgmental, empathetic and tailored support to help you along your quitting journey. Quitline is a culturally inclusive service for all, including the LGBTIQA+ community. We also have Aboriginal counsellors available as well as an interpreter service for people who speak languages other than English. You can also SMS 13 7848, PM us here on Facebook or use the callback form on our website to book a callback at a time that suits you: https://www.quit.org.au/request-callback/

20.01.2022 Have you stopped smoking because of eye health issues? Interested in sharing your story? We would like to hear from you. We are interested in hearing from anyone who has stopped smoking because of eye health concerns, for an upcoming project with eye health professionals. Perhaps your eye health professional recommended you quit smoking? Or you became aware of the risks to eye health? If this sounds like you, and youd like to share your story, please send us a private messag...e and well be in touch. Most people know that smoking is not good for their health, but many people are surprised to learn that people who smoke are more at risk of losing their vision. Smoking can lead to vision loss and blindness which can severely impact on a persons quality of life, affecting driving, reading and recognising faces. To chat to a qualified Quitline counsellor about quitting smoking, or to ask general questions about quitting or smoking and eye health, call 13 7848, Monday to Friday 8am - 8pm, or visit quit.org.au.

20.01.2022 Did you know that cigarette butts are the number one littered item in Australia? Around 7 billion butts end up in the environment each year. Butts and cigarette packaging represent 41% of all litter items collected. Cigarette butts are made from non-biodegradable plastic, which means they never really go away. Instead, they take up to 15 years to break down into microplastics. Microplastics leach toxins into our environment, including into oceans and marine life (not exclud...ing the seafood we eat). While cigarette butts are lying around the environment slowly breaking down, they present as a hazard to wildlife and pets, if ingested. Supporting people to quit smoking not only creates a healthier community, but a healthier environment too. If youd like to chat about quitting smoking, Quitline counsellors are available on the phone on 13 7848, Monday Friday 8am 8pm. They can provide personalised, non-judgemental and empathetic support to help you quit, or just answer questions you may have about quitting in general.

19.01.2022 Last year, the Royal Childrens Hospital National Child Health Poll found that two thirds of parents believe flavoured e-cigarettes encourage teenagers to take up the habit of smoking and more than half supported a ban on flavoured e-cigarettes. Most parents also supported improved enforcement of laws that ban advertising and promotion of e-cigarettes and their sales to children. This years World No Tobacco Day 31 May focussed on the tactics, products and gimmicks used by tobacco companies to attract younger generations. How do these tactics make you feel? #tobaccoexposed

19.01.2022 If you're currently quitting smoking, remember - each time you stand up to a craving, you are one step closer to being smokefree. Each step counts! Stay focused by reminding yourself of all the health benefits quitting will bring - and what those will mean for you and your family. Remember: as soon as you quit, your body starts repairing itself. How did kicking the habit benefit your health?

19.01.2022 There are many quitting options and methods out there. How do you decide whats best? Watch the video to learn more about the different types of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT): nicotine patches, gum, mouth spray, lozenges and inhalator. Its also a good idea to speak to your doctor or pharmacist before starting NRT, so they can help you work out which types will suit you best. For more info head to https://www.quit.org.au//nicotine-replacement-therapy-fre/ If youre thi...nking of stopping smoking, chat with one of our qualified Quitline counsellors on 13 7848, Mon - Fri 8am - 8pm. Quitline provides non-judgmental, empathetic and tailored support to help you along your quitting journey. Quitline is a culturally inclusive service for all, including the LGBTIQA+ community. We also have Aboriginal counsellors available as well as an interpreter service for people who speak languages other than English. See more

19.01.2022 "I would replace my trigger points with something else. I would have a cup of coffee and get up and go outside and walk the dog after breakfast, or in the evening when I sat down for a drink - when I would ordinarily have a cigarette - I would pick up my knitting and sit down and do that instead." Jane smoked for over 20 years before stopping for good. She focussed on her reasons for quitting to inspire her along her journey. Watch her story below to hear some of her stop smo...king tactics, and find out how stopping smoking has helped her enjoy life to the fullest. If you've stopped smoking, what have been some of the benefits you've experienced? If you're planning on stopping, what benefits are you most looking forward to? Comment below! If you'd like to chat about stopping smoking, or have general questions about quitting, speak with one of our friendly Quitline counsellors on 13 7848. Quitline counsellors can offer empathetic and tailored support, whether you're ready or not to stop smoking.

17.01.2022 Buster kept trying to quit his 45-year, 20-a-day smoking habit. Find out how he finally did it by watching his story in the video below.

17.01.2022 For many people who smoke, smoking is a huge part of their life. Its common to feel nervous about giving it away. Here are some tips on quitting smoking, and 5 reasons why you can do it: https://www.quit.org.au/articl/building-up-your-confidence/

16.01.2022 The most recent Australian Secondary School Alcohol and Drug Survey found that 48% of all underage Victorian students who had smoked in the past month had used cigarettes containing crush-balls. Crush-balls are tiny plastic balls filled with flavoured liquid that are placed in the filter of the cigarette. They release flavours that make harsh tobacco more palatable to young smokers. Crush-balls are just one of the products and gimmicks designed by the tobacco industry to get a new generation of customers addicted to nicotine. What do you think about these tactics? Have you seen examples of them? Are you a parent of a child or teenager and are concerned about their exposure to tobacco marketing? Comment below.

14.01.2022 If you're thinking about stopping smoking or you're trying to quit, it can help to know and understand the triggers in your life that make reach for a cigarette. We asked one of our Quitline counsellors to tell us a little more about the idea of a 'smoking diary' and how that can help you to stop smoking. Here's what they said: Keeping a diary to jot down when you smoke can be a great way to figure out your smoking habits and triggers. It can be as simple as jotting down each... cigarette you smoke, along with a couple of dot points such as the time of day and the circumstances that made you want to smoke (e.g. with coffee, after dinner, feeling stressed, etc). By using a diary like this, you can become more mindful of your smoking and you can start finding and practising strategies to help manage your triggers. To find out more about triggers and how to manage them, click the link: https://www.quit.org.au//know-your-triggers-to-beat-cravi/ If you'd like to chat about stopping smoking, or have general questions about quitting, speak with one of our friendly Quitline counsellors on 13 7848. Quitline counsellors can offer practical and tailored support, whether you're ready or not to stop smoking.

13.01.2022 What makes cravings for a cigarette strike? Some cravings strike because your body wants nicotine. Theres often more to it. Many cravings happen because the brain links certain routines and emotions with smoking. Routines (such as your morning coffee) or emotions (like anger) can trigger a craving. So how can you tackle those triggers? The first step is to know your triggers. Then you can change your routines and trick your mind into not expecting a cigarette. Here are 3 ways to tackle triggers head on: https://www.quit.org.au/a/3-ways-tackle-your-triggers-head/

13.01.2022 If you have multiple sclerosis (MS), your help is needed in a new study! The University of Melbourne survey study is about smoking, passive smoking and nicotine products. Even if you have never smoked, your responses will help to improve services for people with MS who do smoke. The online survey will take between 10-20 minutes. For more information or to participate, please click the link or go to bit.ly/multiplesclerosissurvey

12.01.2022 We asked our Quitline counsellors to share some helpful ways to ease anxiety and stress, without reaching for a cigarette. Visit the Quit Tips Hub for all the info: https://bit.ly/38yfuUW

12.01.2022 Jane focused on her reasons for stopping smoking to inspire her along her journey. Watch her story to find out how quitting smoking has helped her enjoy life to the fullest. https://www.quit.org.au/stories/janes-journey-beat-smoking/ Whether or not you’re ready to quit, Quitline counsellors are available on the phone on 13 7848, Monday Friday 8am 8pm. They can provide practical, personalised and non-judgemental support to help you stop smoking, or just answer any general ...questions you may have about quitting. Quitline is an inclusive and culturally safe space for all, including the LGBTIQA+ community. We also offer Aboriginal Quitline, for people who smoke identifying as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander. To access Aboriginal Quitline, call 13 7848 and ask to speak with one of our friendly and qualified Aboriginal Quitline counsellors. We also have an interpreter service available if you speak a language other than English.

12.01.2022 "I worded up my friends who smoked - that if I asked for a drag or to bot a smoke, could they please say "just wait for 5 minutes"..." Rachel had tried many times to stop smoking, until she finally quit for good 8 years ago. How did she do it? Click the link to read her story: https://www.quit.org.au/stories/rachel-used-kitchen-sink/

11.01.2022 Distraction tools for when you need them: A focus on Mindfulness Drawing Cravings for nicotine are a common part of quitting smoking. The good news? They often only last a few minutes. Try the 4Ds: Delay acting on the craving, Deep breathe, Drink water, Do something else.... One neat thing to Do is mindfulness drawing (scribbles, for those less artistically inclined). Mindfulness drawing is a visual technique for training attention and awareness and putting your mind in a calm state. All you need is a piece of paper and a drawing utensil pen, pencil, texta, whatever you have handy. The power is in drawing from one or more perspective and allowing yourself to be completely absorbed in the act of drawing (like when you were a child, remember that feeling?). Draw what you see, what you feel, the rhythm of your breathing, what you hear - it is up to you. It need only take 3-5 minutes. Need more distraction tools? Click here https://www.quit.org.au/tools/distract-me/ Picture gallery: 1. Line drawing, Journal Smarter 2. The flight of birds, Mark-Making Exercises 3. Ragdoll response automatic drawing, Mark-Making Exercises 4. Graphite over textured surface, pic by Karolina Grabowska

11.01.2022 Click the link to visit our Stories Hub and browse stories from people who have stopped smoking. They share their experiences and offer their best tips: https://www.quit.org.au/hub/stories-hub/ For more support or tips tailored to you and your lifestyle chat with one of our friendly Quitline counsellors on 13 7848 or SMS the same number. You can also chat via the new webchat function on our website quit.org.au, or private-message us here on Facebook.

11.01.2022 Use the Your Quit Plan online tool (on your mobile device or computer) for a 4-step approach to building your plan to quit smoking. Walk through each of the stages to get a full picture of what it takes to quit, learn why you smoke in the first place, and then develop a method that is specific to you and your lifestyle. Click here to take a look: https://www.quit.org.au/make-a-plan/ If youre thinking of stopping smoking, chat with one of our qualified Quitline counsellors on 13 7848, Mon - Fri 8am - 8pm. Quitline provides non-judgmental, empathetic and tailored support to help you along your quitting journey. Quitline is a culturally inclusive service for all, including the LGBTIQA+ community. We also have Aboriginal counsellors available as well as an interpreter service for people who speak languages other than English.

11.01.2022 Having a plan that outlines how you're going to go about quitting smoking can help you achieve your goal. Things like your quit date, your triggers, what tactics you're going to use to manage any cravings... Use our online 'Make a Plan' tool to work through the steps to complete your tailored quit plan: https://www.quit.org.au/make-a-plan/ The Make a Plan tool helps you: Set your quit date... Setting a date is the best way to get the ball rolling. It also gives you time to prepare. Work out your reason Why quit? Jot down some key reasons. It can make the difference when times get tough. Work out why you smoke Why do you pick up a cigarette? Is it stress? Or just pure habit? It helps to know why you smoke so you can find strategies to match. Work out your method Once youve worked out your reasons for quitting, the next step is to choose a method. Its the best way to make sure you have the tools and resources you need to quit for good. Find a tailored method that works for you. https://www.quit.org.au/make-a-plan/

11.01.2022 I was scheduled for six weeks of daily radiation interspersed with weekly chemotherapy, or as the oncologist put it ‘everything but the kitchen sink’. Humour became my natural way to cope. To this day it gives me a sense of being on the front foot and having some sort of control. And thanks to quitting smoking when I did, there are some encouraging signs from treatment. My respiratory physician tells me that stopping smoking significantly improves treatment outcomes. I’m so very glad I stopped smoking when I did, because there’s a good chance I may not be here to tell my story if I hadn’t. Click the link to read Geoff's full story: https://www.quit.org.au/stori/why-he-laughing-geoffs-story/

11.01.2022 Top tip from a Facebook member: "I started telling people, 'Oh, I gave them up, I'm a non-smoker'." Words can have a lot of power and help reframe how you think of yourself, as Judy learned throughout her quit journey.... For more support or tips tailored to you and your lifestyle chat with one of our friendly Quitline counsellors on 13 7848 or SMS the same number. You can also chat via the new webchat function on our website quit.org.au, or private-message us here on Facebook.

11.01.2022 If youre currently quitting smoking, remember - each time you stand up to a craving, you are one step closer to being smokefree. Each step counts! Stay focused by reminding yourself of all the health benefits quitting will bring - and what those will mean for you and your family. Remember: as soon as you quit, your body starts repairing itself. How did kicking the habit benefit your health?

10.01.2022 Slip-ups are a common part of stopping smoking. Try not to waste energy on self-blame. The key is to see them as an opportunity to revise your quitting strategy. Plan the next couple of days, especially if you know you're going to be facing challenging situations. Click the link to find out how: https://www.quit.org.au//slip-ups-are-common-part-quitting/

10.01.2022 Did you know that even though advertising and promotion of tobacco products is banned in Australia, tobacco companies pay social media influencers to promote their products across social media platforms? Its just another tactic used by the tobacco industry to get a new generation of kids hooked on nicotine. As part of work commissioned by the Victorian Government, Quit will be developing resources to empower young people to reject industry manipulation. #tobaccoexposed

10.01.2022 Did you know that smoking doubles your risk of stroke? The good news is, quitting reduces the risk. The risk starts to drop immediately after a person stops smoking, and can drop by as much as half after one year. After fifteen years of living smoke free, a persons risk of stroke and heart attack is almost the same as that of a person who has never smoked. Read up on the link between smoking and stroke here https://www.quit.org.au/articles/smokesleadtostrokes/ This week is N...ational Stroke Week. Make sure you know how to be a F.A.S.T. hero: 1. Know how to recognise the F.A.S.T. (Face. Arms. Speech and Time) signs of stroke. 2. Know that time is critical and that stroke is a medical emergency. #strokeweek2020 Stroke Foundation

10.01.2022 Whether you're quitting smoking for the first time, or having another go at quitting smoking, check out our five best tips to help you quit for good: https://www.quit.org.au/articles/getting-ready-quit/

09.01.2022 Use the 'Your Quit Plan' online tool (on your mobile device or computer) for a 4-step approach to building your plan to quit smoking. Walk through each of the stages to get a full picture of what it takes to quit, learn why you smoke in the first place, and then develop a method that is specific to you and your lifestyle. Click here to take a look: https://www.quit.org.au/make-a-plan/ If you're thinking of stopping smoking, chat with one of our qualified Quitline counsellors on 13 7848, Mon - Fri 8am - 8pm. Quitline provides non-judgmental, empathetic and tailored support to help you along your quitting journey. Quitline is a culturally inclusive service for all, including the LGBTIQA+ community. We also have Aboriginal counsellors available as well as an interpreter service for people who speak languages other than English.

09.01.2022 As soon as you stop smoking, your body starts to repair. Within 6 hours, your heart rate and blood pressure stabilise. Within one day, almost all the nicotine is out of your bloodstream and oxygen can more easily reach your heart and muscles. Within a week, youve saved at least $120. Within three months, youre coughing and wheezing less. Within a couple of years, there is a large drop in your risk of heart attack and stroke and this risk will continue to decrease over time. Find out about all the health benefits of quitting - click here: https://www.quit.org.au//the-health-benefits-of-quitting-/

07.01.2022 How does nicotine addiction work? How can you manage triggers? Which factors can influence quitting success? Quit Director Dr Sarah White sat down with the host of GMHBA Healthier Together podcast series to discuss smoking addiction and the best way to go about stopping smoking. Click the link to listen now (18-minute listen): https://gmhbahealthiertogether.podbean.com/e/understanding/

06.01.2022 After having his first cigarette at the age of 16 years, Ian became a heavy smoker, "heavily addicted". Over the years, he tried to quit many times. He always went back to it. At the age of forty, he realised that if he continued to smoke, it "wouldnt be a great outcome" for him, particularly with the psychiatric medications he was taking. Click on the video below to watch Ian talk about how he stopped smoking and the benefits hes experienced since quitting. If youre think...ing of stopping smoking, chat with one of our qualified Quitline counsellors on 13 7848, Mon - Fri 8am - 8pm or request a call back using our online form. Quitline provides non-judgmental, empathetic and tailored support to help you along your quitting journey. Quitline is a culturally inclusive service for all, including the LGBTIQA+ community. We also have Aboriginal counsellors available as well as an interpreter service for people who speak languages other than English. See more

06.01.2022 "I found having something to keep my mind occupied during my downtime or space between tasks (when I used to reach for a cigarette) was key. Jigsaw puzzles worked for me - I think Im on my 10th one!" - Melissa, smokefree for 3 months. If youve stopped smoking or are in the process of quitting, share your tips in the comments below! More tips? Visit our Quit Tips Hub https://bit.ly/2UXFi7i... If youre thinking about stopping smoking, now is the perfect time to give it a go. Without the common triggers to smoke like after-work drinks, or a Sunday session at the pub, people who want to quit can begin creating new routines, taking the first step towards a life without smokes. Check out our Quit Tips Hub for more info, tips and tools or give Quitline a call on 13 7848, Monday to Friday, 8am to 8pm.

06.01.2022 "I re-learned how to do things like have a coffee without a cigarette". Jane's simple tip for how she distracted herself through cravings? Pumpkin seeds! "They helped keep my hands busy." Click here to read more tips and tricks from people who have quit smoking and from our Quitline counsellors: https://www.quit.org.au//5-simple-ways-keep-your-mind-smo/

05.01.2022 "I prepared myself mentally by telling myself that if I felt like a cigarette I would give in only after 20 seconds and then another 5 seconds and so on. Seconds turned into minutes, minutes into hours. You get the picture." Click the link to read how Keith, who had smoked since the age of 17 years and was heavily addicted, finally quit smoking for good https://www.quit.org.au/stories/keith-took-back-control/

04.01.2022 Having a plan that outlines how youre going to go about quitting smoking can help you achieve your goal. Things like your quit date, your triggers, what tactics youre going to use to manage any cravings... Use our online Make a Plan tool to work through the steps to complete your tailored quit plan: https://www.quit.org.au/make-a-plan/ The Make a Plan tool helps you: Set your quit date... Setting a date is the best way to get the ball rolling. It also gives you time to prepare. Work out your reason Why quit? Jot down some key reasons. It can make the difference when times get tough. Work out why you smoke Why do you pick up a cigarette? Is it stress? Or just pure habit? It helps to know why you smoke so you can find strategies to match. Work out your method Once youve worked out your reasons for quitting, the next step is to choose a method. Its the best way to make sure you have the tools and resources you need to quit for good. Find a tailored method that works for you. https://www.quit.org.au/make-a-plan/

03.01.2022 Everyone has different reasons for quitting smoking: better lifestyle, family, health, money. Maybe it's all of those things, or other reasons entirely. Share your reasons to quit smoking in the comments below. Want some inspirations? Click the link to read 9 things you'll gain from quitting: https://www.quit.org.au/artic/9-things-youll-gain-quitting/

03.01.2022 We know that restrictions relating to COVID-19 - and the impacts they may be having - can increase peoples feelings of worry, stress and anxiety. We also know that its not uncommon for stress to act as a trigger to smoke. Thats why weve compiled our most useful tips, stories and information on quitting and staying quit, in one place right here at the Quit Tips Hub. Its a place to: find tips on how to manage stress and anxiety without reaching for a cigarette; hear how ot...hers have stopped smoking; learn about the benefits of quitting; and help you to build your personalised plan to quit. Were here to support you, however you are feeling. Browse the Quit Tips Hub (link below) give us a call or SMS on 13 7848 or complete the call back form to request a time for us to ring you back. No judgement, no lectures. Well listen and help you find your way towards a life without smokes. Visit the Quit Tips Hub at https://bit.ly/38yfuUW

03.01.2022 Here are a few of our Quitline counsellors. If youre thinking of stopping smoking, chat with one of our qualified Quitline counsellors on 13 7848, Mon - Fri 8am - 8pm. Quitline provides non-judgmental, empathetic and tailored support to help you along your quitting journey. Quitline is a culturally inclusive service for all, including the LGBTIQA+ community. We also have Aboriginal counsellors available as well as an interpreter service for people who speak languages other than English. You can also SMS 13 7848, PM us here on Facebook or use the callback form on our website to book a callback at a time that suits you: https://www.quit.org.au/request-callback/

02.01.2022 With restrictions back in place in metro Melbourne and Mitchell Shire, we understand peoples feelings of worry, stress and anxiety may increase. If youre trying to quit smoking or have been thinking about quitting, it is possible to make physical distancing work for you. Without the common triggers to smoke like after-work drinks, or a Sunday session at the pub, people who want to quit can begin creating new routines, taking the first step towards a life without smokes. Now is the perfect time to quit. Read through our Quit Tips hub for more info https://bit.ly/38yfuUW

02.01.2022 Today, 5 June 2020, marks World Environment Day. While the environmental costs of tobacco are often overlooked, the truth is that the global tobacco supply chain has a big effect on the planets natural resources and vulnerable ecosystems: land clearing, pest and disease control, use of fertilisers, and extensive water use. Most tobacco leaf is cured using heat produced by burning wood, coal or gas. Turning tobacco leaf into cigarettes creates a range of chemical by-products hazardous to the environment, including ammonia, nicotine hydrochloric acid and toluene. And then theres the cigarette butt and packaging waste, and with e-cigarettes, the e-waste. Learn more at https://www.quit.org.au//fact/environmental-costs-tobacco/ #worldenvironmentday #fornature @unep

01.01.2022 "I re-learned how to do things like have a coffee without a cigarette". Janes simple tip for how she distracted herself through cravings? Pumpkin seeds! "They helped keep my hands busy." Click here to read more tips and tricks from people who have quit smoking and from our Quitline counsellors: https://www.quit.org.au//5-simple-ways-keep-your-mind-smo/