Posted 1 Jan, 2020
Melburnian of the Year, Dr Bronwyn King AO, is urging smokers to leave cigarettes behind in the new year by signing up to the Quit Pledge 2020, which supports people on their journey to becoming tobacco-free.
To help keep their pledge, smokers will be contacted by trained Quitline counsellors, who will work with them to develop a personalised plan to help identify and manage triggers, as well as provide information and support about how to access nicotine replacement therapy.
Trained Quitline counsellors can also help those who may have previously tried to quit but need more support to get back on track, in a confidential and non-judgemental environment.
Founder and CEO of Tobacco Free Portfolios Dr Bronwyn King, said the new year provides a great opportunity to start fresh and make vital and lasting health and lifestyle changes.
“Quitting smoking is without a doubt, the best thing you can do for your health and the health of the people around you. No matter what age you are - quitting smoking has immediate benefits on your physical health and mental well being,” she said.
Quit Victoria Director Dr Sarah White said smokers need comprehensive and tailored support to quit.
“Research shows that the most effective way to quit smoking is a combination of coaching and support (like the Quitline) and nicotine replacement therapy products or quitting medication,” she said.
“Imagine looking back in a year’s time and realising 2020 was the year you quit smoking for good? It is possible – and while it’s not easy – there are people who are trained to support you no matter where you are on your journey to quit,” Dr White said.
Calling the Quitline is one of the most effective ways of quitting smoking. Quitline counsellors are trained to listen and talk through ways to quit. The first call often takes around 15 to 20 minutes and covers the caller’s smoking history, motivation to quit and how smoking fits into the caller’s life.
To sign the Quit Pledge 2020, visit quit.org.au/quitpledge2020
For more quitting advice, visit quit.org.au or call the Quitline on 13 7848 between 8am and 8pm Monday to Friday. Quitline is a culturally inclusive telephone service for all, including the LGTBIQ+ community. Aboriginal Quitline counsellors are also available.