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Smoking

The Canadian Cancer Society's Smokers' Helpline

1-877-513-5333

Toll-free, bilingual, confidential telephone service for all smokers, whether or not they are ready to quit. They can also assist family and friends who would like to help a smoker quit.

Hours of Operation:
Mon to Thurs8 a.m. – 9 p.m
Fri8 a.m. – 6 p.m
Sat and Sun8 a.m. – 5 p.m

What Can I Do To Control My Smoking? 

  1. Start thinking about quitting. Consider the costs of smoking compared to the benefits.
  2. Prepare to quit. Understand why you smoke and make a commitment to quit. Identify your triggers to smoke.​
  3. Quit. Set a quit date.
  4. Stay smoke free. Prepare for any relapses.

Ask your doctor for more information about counseling and quitting aids.

What Can I Do To Control My Cravings?

Cravin​​gs can be triggered by three things:

  1. nicotine withdrawal. Signs of nicotine withdrawal include:
    • irritability
    • depression​​
    • anxiety
    • headache
    • increased appetite
  2. habits. Smoking can occur at the same time as another activity or emotion, such as driving, drinking alcohol or coffee, after a meal, or when stressed.
  3. memories, such as reminders of how nice it is to relax with a cigarette.

You will feel cravings and urges, but they will eventually go away.

Avoid giving in to cravings

  • Remind yourself the craving will pass.
  • Do another activity, such as exercise, when you have a craving.
  • Take deep breaths.
  • Avoid activities that you associate with smoking.

What Can I Do To Avoid Exposure To Second-Hand Smoke?

To avoid second hand ​smoke:

  • make your home and car smoke-free
  • avoid locations where smoking is permitted
  • talk to family members who smoke, and develop a plan together that respects both your environments
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