Despite the many quitting resources we offer to participants in our tobacco cessation program, many people let the opportunity pass them by.

As a Quit Coach, I hear it in their tone of voice, or lack there of: “Yeah, I read the materials. I think I’ve been online a few times.” When, in reality, most of these participants have probably never lifted a finger to flip through the pages of the booklets this program has provided.  I can also tell whether or not people have actually logged on to utilize the online resources they have.

I really just want to say I’m sorry. Sorry that they may never come across some vital information that could perhaps boost their confidence, remind them of how important quitting is for them, or even help to give them tips and techniques on skills to use to get them through those urges.  Sorry there are people out there who would be more than happy to have these resources to use, but aren’t able to receive them. Sorry that there are people who may never find that ally online who could “show you the ropes” and help to offer support when it seems no one else will.

Now I know some people aren’t much into reading, don’t have access to the internet or maybe just don’t know much about using the computer in general, and that’s okay. I just hate to see these kinds of resources going unused, or should I say, only being used as coasters on the living room coffee table.

On the flip side, I’ve heard wonderful feedback on how these materials have truly helped our program participants. I’ve had participants refer to specific sections in the booklets, say they’ve written their own ideas in them, and have even shared these resources with others.  Some participants have gushed about being able to log onto their online resources anytime they’re having a rough day or even if they’re doing well and just want to check in with their “quit buddies.”

I’m not saying participants have to force themselves to do something they don’t want to do or are uncomfortable with, but isn’t that sometimes what happens when they quit?  It’s not necessarily what they want to do and it isn’t always comfortable.  Who knows, maybe flipping through the booklets or logging on just once will spark something that will change their quit forever.