MCC Daily Tribune
Great American Smokeout
The American Cancer Society sponsors the Great American Smokeout on the third Thursday of November (November 17), challenging smokers to give up cigarettes for 24 hours. If you or a loved one smokes cigarettes, consider joining the movement, and take the first step toward quitting cigarettes forever!
HOW TO OBSERVE GREAT AMERICAN SMOKEOUT
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Make a plan
Learn about options to curb cravings and get your support system ready to help you through hard times. If you're trying to help someone else quit, check out some ways to ensure you're doing it the right way.
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Get rid of anything smoking-related
It's the perfect day to remove all smoking-related items from your home. Remove all cigarettes, ashtrays, and lighters from your car and workplace as well. Also consider stocking up on substitutes like gum and crunchy snacks.
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Reflect on your smoking past
If you've tried to quit before, the Great American Smokeout is a good time to reflect on your past attempts. Think about why those attempts didn't work, and go back to the drawing board for the next time around.
4 FAMOUS EX-SMOKERS YOU NEVER KNEW SMOKED AT ALL
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Gwyneth Paltrow
The Academy Award-winning actress smoked frequently as a teen and didn't decide to quit until she was pregnant with her first child.
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Barack Obama
The former president quit with the help of Nicorette gum, hoping to set a good example for his daughters.
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Jennifer Aniston
The "Friends" star quit smoking successfully by turning to yoga and other exercise to keep her mind off of cigarettes.
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Mila Kunis
The actress admitted she used cigarettes as a way to slim down for her role in "Black Swan," but has since given up the habit.
WHY GREAT AMERICAN SMOKEOUT IS IMPORTANT
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A single day can help people take the first step
The Great American Smokeout highlights the dangers of smoking tobacco and provides a meaningful way for people to avoid cigarettes. It also offers a comfortable environment for family members and friends to speak about tobacco and how to quit smoking.
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It brings people together
Not only does the Great American Smokeout speak to the negative effects of smoking, but it also helps people come together in the name of quitting. People trying to quit can communicate with one another online using the hashtag #GreatAmericanSmokeout, or by attending local events in various cities.
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It provides resources to quit
The American Cancer Society's Great American Smokeout website provides resources, news, and stories about the journey to quit smoking. Smokers can find inspiration and tips to increase their chances of quitting successfully.
Sarah Benedict
MCC Wellness Council
11/17/2022