Want to finally kick the habit? Fairfield hospital offering free smoking cessation classes

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It’s recommended that attendees go to all classes as they each build upon the last to help participants develop a personalized quitting plan.

Nanette Bentley, Mercy Health spokeswoman, said the class is offered several times a year at all of the system’s hospital. Classes are often well-attended, she said.

“I think people that sign up for the classes are motivated to quit,” Bentley said. “It gives them the tools and resources they need to help them.”

Classes are limited because Bentley said that contributes to the success of each participant, and “from the moment you quit smoking you’re benefiting your health. And the benefits accrue over time, and you can actually reverse some of the damage you’ve done over time to your body.”

One is never too old to quit smoking, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

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“People who stop smoking greatly reduce their risk for disease and early death,” according to the CDC. “Although the health benefits are greater for people who stop at earlier ages, there are benefits at any age.”

Classes are from 6 to 7 p.m. beginning April 18 in the staff lounge on the main level at Mercy Health-Fairfield, 3000 Mack Road.

The classes take place on:

• Wednesday, April 18

• Thursday, April 19

• Wednesday, April 25

• Thursday, April 26

The program follows the American Cancer Society’s Freshstart program, with each class building on the previous class. They are:

• Class One: “Decide to Quit” covers the negative health consequences of smoking and helps motivate attendees to quit the habit.

• Class Two: “Plan to Quit” takes attendees through choosing a quit date, medications that can help smokers quit the habit, the importance of support and building a support group and preparing for the quit date.

• Class Three: “Your Quit Day” covers topics such as how to quit successfully, dealing with nicotine withdrawal and cravings and positive thinking.

• Class Four: “Staying Quit” covers mental planning, recovering from slips and lung screenings and provides information about the Ohio Quit Line. The instructor also suggests each attendee sign up for the Ohio Quit Line for additional support while quitting.

To register for the class, call 513-603-8601 to register by Tuesday, April 17.