Quitting is more successful with support.
A journey of change and recovery
The QuittersWin Blog is encouragement for the brave folks on a journey of change and recovery. QuittersWin offers smoking cessation services in public and private settings using the BESOCHEMPS model of addiction. Remember that you aren’t alone on this journey and there’s no shame in asking for help. Remember that this site is searchable. There are over 500 posts here, so whether you’re on a specific quest or just filling time, there’s something positive here for you. And for private answers to specific questions, remember that you can CONTACT us!
Find your Encouragement!
Chilly Fishes & Warm Wishes
On this day when so many are thinking about reasons to be thankful, I wanted to pause and express my thanks for the privilege of daily serving folks who are brave enough for this journey. Trying to make positive changes in our live is surely the mark of courage. So thank you for taking good… Read More
COVID Quit Cassie
A Story of Numbers After my eighth serious quit attempt in three years, it finally took. Support from the QuittersWin group and mindful use of NRT (nicotine replacement therapy) helped me finally sever the chains from my 45-year, pack-per-day addiction. I noticed a difference right away! By the end of day two smoke-free, I was… Read More
On A Bridge
October 10 is World Mental Health Day. Early on an October morning (5 years ago today) as I drove to work in the rain, I sat at a red light in the center of my hometown. There are two routes that will get me to work in about the same amount of time. One route… Read More
Fierce and Frail – Part Two
Maybe Miracles Do Happen? If people can maintain coherence and avoid terrible detox symptoms, they might be able to hold hope long enough for a miracle to occur. I’ve seen the bumper sticker that says “Expect a Miracle.” Some days I might scoff at such unreasonable hope. Some days I might wish that expecting a… Read More
Fierce and Frail
Part One – A Fierce Storm Today Rehab and Detox beds are nowhere to be found. Demand is higher than ever. Resources are more scarce. Staff are harder to hire and keep. Overdose deaths (CDC figures) rose 30% from 2019 to 2020 and another 15% from 2020 to 2021. The system has been broken for… Read More
Stress Less
Life will never be stressless, but maybe we can find better ways of managing our anxiety, stress, or feelings of despair. Why do we react to stress that way? When folks relapse and go back to vaping or smoking, it is almost always due to a stressful situation. The stimulation caused by nicotine in the… Read More
Let’s Unpack That!
There’s a phrase I hear often and even when people are talking about serious matters, I’m tempted to smirk or laugh. Maybe you use or hear this phrase – “emotional baggage.” OK, “I’m pretty sure you meant to say “griefcase!” is a kinda funny response (I’m a sucker for a cheap laugh.) But the things… Read More
Black Lives/Black Lungs
While Black history should be accurately taught and celebrated every day, Black History Month is a perfect time to spotlight the fact that smoking is a social justice issue as well as a global health concern. The Tobacco industry has a well-documented record of target marketing to marginalized communities. “These tactics have serious consequences. African… Read More
Mirth and Motivation
Even the best of days would be better with a few smiles, smirks, or chuckles! So here’s a small dose of motivation for your day. Laughter is #GoodMedicine! If this doesn’t immediately ring a bell, here’s a hint – think about Abbott & Costello! Yup, I ACTUALLY laughed out loud the first time I saw… Read More