March 31, 2006

MGHers graduate to healthier, smoke-free lives

As any person who has attempted to quit smoking knows, ending the addiction to cigarettes can be one of the most difficult journeys they ever undertake and often requires an enormous amount of support to be successful. Recognizing this need, MGH Human Resources — in collaboration with the MGH Quit Smoking Service and MGH Community Health Associates — launched an eight-week, smoking cessation pilot program this past January to help employees stop smoking and begin healthier, smoke-free lives.

In the sessions, the group's 14 participants learned about such topics as preparing to quit, nicotine addiction, nicotine replacement therapy, relaxation and stress reduction techniques, hypnotherapy, weight control and nutrition, relapse prevention and strategies for living a smoke-free life. With the help of the program, many of the participants have stopped smoking completely, while others have reduced the number of cigarettes they smoke each day. These achievements were recognized at a special graduation ceremony March 2.

"Quitting smoking is a difficult task, and people who are trying to quit need education and support," says Eileen O'Brien, a tobacco treatment specialist with MGH Community Health Associates and facilitator of the group. "A smoking cessation group can be a good resource to help people quit smoking by allowing them to share their experiences with others who are experiencing the same thing."

A second support group is underway, and two additional groups are planned. The first group will meet Thursdays, from 5 to 5:45 pm at 50 Staniford St., ninth floor, beginning April 27. The second group will meet Wednesdays, from noon to 12:45 at the MGH Chelsea HealthCare Center, beginning May 10. For more information or to register for the group at 50 Staniford St., call (617) 726-7443. To register for the group at MGH Chelsea, call (781) 485-6210.

Graduates of the employee smoking cessation program