The calendar's about to flip to another Great American Smokeout, and if you're looking to ditch the smokes for good, now's as good a time as any to give it a shot. As detailed by the Douglas County Health Department, this Thursday, Nov. 21, marks the day when smokers across the nation try to stub out their cigarettes for a full 24 hours.
But, let's face the ashtray music here, kicking the habit isn't a walk in the park. The stats show a majority of smokers will circle the quit attempt drain at least five times before they pull the plug on the habit for good. If you've been down this road before and the potholes got the best of you, it's worth remembering that this time could be different, and the Great American Smokeout might just be your on-ramp to quit the city. "By taking the pledge to not smoke on Nov. 21, you’ll be taking an important step toward a healthier life and reducing your cancer risk," as per the Douglas County Health Department.
Don't smoke? No problem. You can still saddle up and ride a shotgun by supporting a buddy in their quest to quit. Adopt-a-smoker is in vogue, it's picking someone who's quitting and being their cheerleader. Or hey, if you're feeling the sympathizer's squeeze, you could always try giving up your vice for the day.
It seems trite but it's true, quitting smoking is a health boon from the minute you quit. According to the Douglas County Health Department, "Within minutes of putting down a cigarette, your body begins to recover." No doubt that's a fact worth inhaling deeply. If you're ready to trade up, DCHD's ready to deal the cards, free Quit-Kits, and online cessation resources are on the table for the taking.
