Why do we smoke? There are physical reasons — nicotine in cigarettes is addictive, and mental reasons — habits and emotions associated with lighting up. Taking on both is key to changing your behavior and making healthier choices. Quitting Essentials is your source for tools, tips and research to help you tackle both sides of quitting.

Understand triggers
Discover what habits, emotions and senses trigger your smoking, then develop strategies to avoid or overcome each trigger. It's a crucial first step in breaking free
from tobacco. More >

Manage cravings
Learn techniques for dealing with strong cravings so you'll be ready for the very real, physical effects of nicotine withdrawal. More >

Thinking positive
A look at the science of thinking positive to help you stay focused and overcome thoughts that may undermine quitting. More >

Managing weight
You can control your weight when you quit smoking. Just stick to the basics: Enjoy healthy foods. Understand your triggers. And plan on burning a few extra calories. More >

Handling stress
Understand anxiety better and learn to build your own stress-busting techniques by following these basic principles. Discover how to use your "stress energy" to say no to smoking. More >