The Wellness Coalition (TWC) has created a brochure that physicians can hand to their patients who need support to quit using tobacco products.

“We’ve developed this brochure as a resource for physicians because we understand their busy schedules and the volumes of patients they see any given day,” said Travis Parker, communications director for The Wellness Coalition. “It is our hope that physicians will appreciate the ability to hand out a full list of supportive resources to their patients, while saving themselves the time it would take to list these resources verbally in each appointment.”

The brochure is offered at no cost to local clinics, nonprofits, and other agencies that seek to improve the health and wellness of those living in and around the River Region.

“We are also offering the brochures to businesses and multi-unit housing communities who are interested in partnering with us to implement tobacco-free policies,” said Christopher Kirk, tobacco community liaison for The Wellness Coalition.

To learn more or to request brochures, call (334) 293- 6502. The number of brochures distributed is dependent on availability.

Tips To Help People Quit for Good

No matter your age or how long you’ve been smoking, quitting improves health immediately and over the long term. Giving up smoking is a journey, and it can be hard, but you can increase your chances of success with a good plan and support. Getting help through counseling and medications doubles or even triples your chances of quitting successfully.

  • Know your reasons for quitting.
  • Make the decision to quit.
  • Build your quit plan.
  • Learn about nicotine replacement therapies.
  • Prepare for cravings beforehand.
  • Manage withdrawal symptoms.
  • Enjoy the benefits of being smoke-free.
  • Recognize the signs of depression.
  • Work on reducing your stress levels.
  • Avoid secondhand smoke.

“I want to see my grandchildren and great-grandchildren grow. If you had an unsuccessful attempt, try and try again.” – Marie, Diagnosed with Buerger’s disease in 1993

The Right Medicine Can Help

There are many resources available to help you quit smoking, including quitlines, educational materials, and support groups. You can also talk to your doctor about other strategies for quitting that may be right for you.

Quit-smoking medicines can make quitting less painful and can more than double the chances of successfully quitting. Seven FDA-approved medicines are proven to help adults quit smoking:

  • Nicotine patch
  • Lozenges
  • Gums
  • Oral inhaler
  • Nasal spray
  • Varenicline
  • Bupropion

Before using any quit-smoking medicine, always read the label first and follow any instructions you receive from your doctor or other health care provider.