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Still need help?

You may find that, even with all of the information provided in these messages, you still need a bit more help. That's okay. Maybe you need a group program, counseling, or just more information. Help provides you with information you need to carry through with your desired changes. Help comes in many forms:

* self-help books, pamphlets, tapes, and videos

* web-sites by medical professionals and organizations

* Toll-free telephone quitlines

* health care professionals such as physicians, therapists, pharmacists, psychologists, nurses, dentists, etc.

* non-profit agencies such as the Cancer Sociey, the Lung Association, and the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

* support groups such as Nicotine Anonymous.

* formal smoking cessation programs in your community.

Books, pamphlets, tapes, videos, and web-sites are best suited for those who need a starting point, more information on what needs to be done, a better idea of the process involved in changing, or a guide for what to do and when to do it. Self-help tends to work well with people who are highly motivated, who are not experiencing extreme withdrawal, who like to do things on their own.

Physicians are often helpful in dealing with the addictive nature of smoking. They can help you decide whether nicotine gum, nicotine patch, or prescription medications such as bupropion might be helpful. They can also help in the diagnosis and treatment of depression and anxiety disorders.

Don't forget that you can also find out more about quitting through toll-free telephone quitlines. Quitlines offer support for smokers who want to quit, may be thinking of quitting, have quit and need support, or enjoy smoking and do not want to stop. Trained cessation specialists can help you develop a structured plan, answer your questions and refer you to other smoking cessation services in your community. They can also provide support for family and friends who want to help a smoker.

© Health Canada