We understand that quitting smoking is hard. You may have already tried some different ways to stop smoking, so we meet you where you are and stand by you until you’re able to quit.
Individualized Help with a Network of Support
Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable disease in the United States. Smoking, vaping and smokeless tobacco have long-term impacts on your health and can lead to cancer, heart and lung disease, and other serious conditions.
Quitting is one of the best ways to immediately improve your health.
Why Quit Smoking?
Quit smoking to increase your overall health:
- Improve lung function and reduce symptoms like shortness of breath
- Reduce your risk of illnesses like lung cancer, heart disease and COPD
- Improve the health of pregnant people and their babies
- Increase your life expectancy
- Protect those around you from secondhand smoke
Tobacco Cessation at UVM Health
If you use any form of nicotine products, and are considering making a change, we offer resources and tobacco cessation counselors to help you reach your goal. We’ll work with you to understand your personal preferences and needs to create an individualized plan to quit.
Smoking Cessation Classes
Our free tobacco cessation classes, based on the American Cancer Society’s Freshstart program, help you overcome your addiction and enjoy the health benefits of a tobacco-free lifestyle. They are held virtually and in-person at locations throughout Vermont. Classes are open to all residents of Vermont, and New York and New Hampshire residents who have at least one Vermont-based health care provider.
Classes meet once a week for four weeks and usually have between two and six participants. Classes are centered on group discussion, so topics are tailored to the interests and needs of the group.
A trained Tobacco Treatment Specialist (TTS) facilitates each session, which may cover:
- Identifying triggers and changing routines
- Stress management
- Withdrawal management
- Healthy lifestyle choices (like exercise and diet)
As part of these classes, we offer 16 weeks’ worth of free nicotine replacement therapy (nicotine patches, gum or lozenges) for eligible participants. The TTS leading your class can help you decide if nicotine replacement therapy is right for you.
Class Registration
To register for an upcoming class, call 802-847-7333 or visit MyHealthyVT and choose "Quitting Smoking."
Tobacco Cessation Programs and Support
A variety of 1:1 and community support programs are available to help you quit tobacco. Check out the available options to see what may be the best fit for you.
Join weekly group sessions that focus on making small sustainable changes, combined with nicotine replacement therapy for proven effectiveness.
Connect with a quit coach who will help you get ready to quit, provide support and help you stay tobacco free. Call now to get started.
- Vermont residents: l-800-QUIT NOW (l-800-784-8669)
- New York residents: l-866-NY QUITS (l-866-697-8487)
- Outside these two areas: l-800-QUIT NOW (l-800-784-8669)
Available for new and expecting parents, LGBTQ+, young adults and many more. 802Quits offers financial incentives to help you quit smoking.
Find out if you qualify by visiting www.802quits.org/support-for-me/.
Get support, advice, tips, online coaching, support groups and forums with 802Quits. Visit www.802quits.org for more information and to get started.
Smoking Cessation Resources
- 802Quits program: This free program offers phone coaching and support. This service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and offers interpretive services. Web-based and texting support are also available. Call 1-800-Quit-Now (1-800-784-8669) to learn more.
- Individual coaching with a Local Quit Coach: This service may be available in some areas. Please call 802-847-7333 or email quittobaccoclass@uvmhealth.org to learn more.
- NY State Smokers' Quitline: This free and confidential service is part of the New York State Department of Health Tobacco Control Program and based at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center to help New York State residents who want to stop vaping, smoking, or using other forms of tobacco.
- American Lung Association: To improve lung health, prevent lung disease, and create a healthy world for all, the American Lung Association provides helpful resources and screening materials.
- American Cancer Society: To help you make informed decisions about cancer screenings, the American Cancer Society publishes a variety of early detection guidelines.
- Health Assistance Program: The Health Assistance Program (HAP) is here to help eligible low- and middle-income families get prescription medications at no cost, even if you have insurance.
