The California Smokers’ Helpline is a telephone program that can help you quit smoking. Helpline services are free, funded by the California Department of Health Services. The Helpline has assisted smokers in quitting since 1992. Every month, thousands of Californians call and receive help. When you call the toll-free number, a friendly staff person will offer a choice of services: self-help materials, a referral list of other programs, and one-on-one counseling over the phone. In a research study those who received telephone counseling were twice as likely to stay quit than those who tried to quit on their own. The California Smokers’ Helpline is committed to serving California’s diverse population.

Helpline Phone Numbers

 Service Hours

Monday through Friday 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

If you call after hours or if the lines are busy, you will reach the Helpline's 24-hour voice mail service. You will need to leave a message to have your call returned.
 

Common Questions about Quitting Smoking

Q. Smoking is a part of my life. What will I do without it?
A. The key is to learn new ways of dealing with the situations that make you want to smoke, such as stress or boredom. Find something fulfilling to do, like a hobby or other activity. It will help you adjust to your new smoke-free lifestyle.

Q. The last time I tried, I failed. How do I get past thinking that I just can’t quit?
A. Most people try several times before they quit for good. Think of your previous attempts as “practice” for the real thing. Think of the things that helped, and the things that didn’t. Your experience actually gives you an edge. It makes you more likely to quit for good this time.

Q. Will cutting down help me to quit?
A. It could, as long as you plan to quit completely once you get down to a certain point. Cutting down can be a good way to build your confidence while gradually reducing your nicotine intake. If you want to quit completely, you need to set a Quit Day and stick to it. Otherwise it can be very difficult to give up those last few cigarettes.

Q. The last time I quit I was irritable and moody. How do I keep from putting my family through that again?
A. It’s true, quitting smoking can make you irritable. Many people get moody when withdrawing from nicotine. But with a good plan and an active routine, you’ll be better prepared to handle bad moods. Ask your family and friends to be patient. By the end of the first week or two, you should be feeling less irritable.

Q. Should I use the patch or some other quitting aid?
A. Some people find such aids to be helpful. The most common ones are nicotine patches, nicotine gum, and certain medications. They can be especially helpful for people who smoke more than 15 cigarettes a day. On the other hand, many smokers prefer to quit cold turkey. Whether you use a quitting aid or go cold turkey is a personal decision. You may wish to discuss it with your doctor.