I want to quit smoking, but I’ve never been able to stop for more than a few weeks at a time. Where should I start over?

It’s clear from your question that you are well on your way to making a lasting change. You are already determined to quit smoking, and through your past attempts to quit you have taken tangible steps in that direction. Congratulations on your progress!

Finding the right combination of tools and support to quit smoking can be a trial-and-error process. During this process, you are likely to experience false starts that feel like failures. But the truth is that each attempt is a chance to learn more about what will or won’t work for you. Each attempt moves you closer to long-term cessation.

With that in mind, it might make sense to decide your next steps by reflecting on your past quit attempts. Ask yourself: What tools and support systems did you use? What proved to be the most helpful to you? When were your cravings the strongest, and what would have helped you in those moments?

There has never been a better time to quit smoking. There are more evidence-based cessation tools, therapies, and alternative nicotine products than there have ever been before. It’s never too late to speak with your primary care provider about all the ways you can quit or join a cessation program for support.

Keep going, and don’t forget to recognize small wins along the way. With each one you are building a healthier future for yourself.

Learn more about all the ways you can quit here.