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Take Steps to Quit Smoking or Vaping

Date: 10/17/25

Smoking and vaping are not only bad for your lungs, but they affect your overall health and can make chronic conditions worse. Quitting can be hard, but there are a few steps you can take to make quitting a little bit easier.

  1. Set a date to quit. Pick a date and stick to it. Choose a time when you can focus on this change, though. Holidays and other stressful events are not the best times for quitting.
  2. Know your triggers. Remove ashtrays and any cigarettes or vapes from your home. If you know there are certain activities or stressors that make you want to smoke, be aware of them and try to manage those triggers.
  3. Talk to your doctor. Contact your primary care provider (PCP) about wanting to quit smoking or vaping. Your doctor may offer medications or other products that can help you quit.
  4. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. It is important to know you don’t have to do this alone. Let your friends and family know you are quitting. If they smoke, ask them not to smoke in your house or in front of you.
  5. Find support online. There are  text programs and mobile apps that can help you quit. CHIP, STAR, STAR Kids and STAR+PLUS members also have access to an online tool to help with smoking cessation through their Superior Value-added Services (VAS). Call Member Services at the number on the back of your member ID card to get started.

For more information or support about how to quit smoking or vaping, visit the resources below.