Quitting

Cessation supports exist to help those who are considering quitting smoking or who have made the decision to quit. Make a plan to quit today!

On this page:

• Cessation support
• Youth who want to quit

Cessation support

There are many ways to quit smoking, and the best way to stop smoking is the one that works for you. Combining the right tools and support can nearly triple your chances of quitting smoking.

If you are an adult that currently smokes cigarettes regularly, switching completely to vaping products can be a less harmful option for your health. However, vaping should be accompanied with the intention to eventually completely stop vaping, as it not a risk free alternative. Young people, individuals who are pregnant and those who do not use tobacco products should not vape.

Vaping nicotine can lead to physical dependence and addiction. Vaping can expose you to chemicals that can be harmful to your health.

Plan your quit date and supportive coaching

Quitting support exists to help those who are considering reducing their use of nicotine or have made the decision to quit. For help, call the quitline at 1-866-366-3667 or visit the website https://www.tobaccofreenb-nbsanstabac.ca/en. You will find a free evidence-based strategy and trained professionals ready to build your individualized program. Your Quit Coach will help you set goals, inform you about quit aids and help you through cravings.

Research continues to be conducted around quitting vaping. However, as a result of the tobacco epidemic, there are known tools and strategies to treat nicotine addiction that can be effective.

Youth who want to quit

Vaping should not be used as a smoking cessation tool for youth due to lack of effectiveness and evidence of harm. The Canadian Paediatric Society recommends behaviour strategies known for treatment in other addictions as first line therapy and suggests considering nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) for youth with severe nicotine dependence or withdrawal symptoms.

NRT, such as patches, gums, lozenges, inhalers, and mouth sprays have been shown to be safe for youth, though evidence of effectiveness for smoking and vaping cessation in youth is limited.

Behavioural strategies to help youth quit vaping:

• Try to reduce the amount of nicotine you are vaping
• Try not to carry your vape with you (e.g., keep it in your locker at school).
• When you are having a craving, try to keep yourself busy. Cravings only last a few minutes.
• Try to delay vaping for as long as possible each time.
• Consider speaking with your healthcare provider about using nicotine replacement therapy to quit vaping (patch, gam, inhaler, mouth spray or lozenges).