QUIT TODAY. BE THERE TOMORROW.
There are many resources available to help you quit smoking.
What smokers should know about COVID-19
“Smoking makes you more susceptible to COVID-19, because it destroys some of your lung’s natural defense mechanisms,” “Vaping may do the same thing.”
“There’s no better time to quit smoking than today. Active smokers are at increased risk for COVID-19 to cause them problems. So, again, there is no better time to quit than today.”
Smoking: NYC Quits
The Health Department wants to help you quit smoking or vaping. Visit the New York State Smokers' Quitline, or call 866-NY-QUITS (866-697-8487) to apply for a free starter kit of quit-smoking medications and to talk to a quit coach.
HelpMeQuit App
The Health Department launched NYC HelpMeQuit, a free app to help New Yorkers quit smoking.
NYC HelpMeQuit app available at the Apple or Google Play stores.
Developed with input from smokers trying to quit, HelpMeQuit includes tips to stop cravings; social support from other people using HelpMeQuit and Facebook friends; connection to existing smoking cessation resources (such as the New York State Smokers' Quitline and a map of nearby clinics); and in-app games to distract from smoking. The app helps New Yorkers track their progress through money saved by not purchasing cigarettes; cigarettes not smoked; badges earned for reaching milestones; and time — down to the hour — since they quit smoking.
Resources to Help You Quit Smoking
It’s never too late to quit smoking. Quitting smoking now improves your health and reduces your risk of heart disease, cancer, lung disease, and other smoking-related illnesses. There are many resources available to help you quit smoking, including quitlines, educational materials, Web sites, and support groups. You can also talk to your doctor about other strategies for quitting that may be right for you.
Quitlines
For support in quitting, including free quit coaching, a free quit plan, free educational materials, and referrals to local resources, call:
1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669)
1-855-DÉJELO-YA (1-855-335-3569) (en Español)
The Health Department encourages people trying to quit smoking to consider the following tips:
Prepare yourself. Make a list of your reasons for quitting and read it often.
Pick a quit date. Throw out all of your cigarettes beforehand, and get rid of ashtrays and lighters.
Get support and encouragement. Tell your family, friends and coworkers that you are quitting and ask for their support.
Stay away from that first cigarette. Smoking even one cigarette can easily become a regular habit again. Cravings will lessen the longer you don’t smoke. If you can quit for three months, you’ll likely quit for good.
Notice what triggers cravings. Alcohol, coffee, stress, and being around others who smoke can all trigger cravings. Notice what makes you feel like smoking so that you can avoid those situations or change your routine.
Keep Trying to Quit Smoking
What People Are Saying
“Smoking is scientifically proven to cause strokes, diabetes, lung disease, and other damaging ailments. I urge all Brooklynites to heed the warning calls and take ownership of their health by quitting smoking for good, however long it takes.”
— Eric L. Adams, Brooklyn Borough President
“Smoking is an addiction that takes its worst toll on low income communities, where more people smoke and chronic respiratory illnesses disrupt day to day activities for children and adults. The ‘Your Number’ campaign offers free assistance and support for New Yorkers who want to quit smoking. This is a major step in improving health outcomes and eliminating health disparities throughout the city.”
— Fernando Cabrera, New York City Council Member
SCT Smoke Free
DISCLAIMER: SCT Smoke Free will not provide legal advice over the internet, over the phone, or in person. The information on the website is not legal advice but curated information from various New York government agencies and organizations. Finally, the information contained on this website is not guaranteed to be up to date. Therefore, please seek the advice of competent legal counsel licensed in New York.