Tobacco

Nicotine is one of the most addictive substances in common use — and one of the most treatable to quit.

What it is

Tobacco use, whether cigarettes, vaping, or other nicotine products, creates a strong physical dependence that makes quitting harder than willpower alone usually accounts for. It remains one of the leading preventable causes of illness, which is part of why quitting support is so widely available and well-funded.

Common signs

Using soon after waking, or needing it to start the day
Strong cravings or irritability when unable to use
Repeated unsuccessful attempts to quit
Continuing to use despite health concerns or a doctor's advice

Good to know

Most people who successfully quit make several attempts before it sticks — a relapse is a normal part of the process, not evidence that quitting won't work for you.

What helps

A combination of nicotine replacement therapy (patches, gum) or other medication, plus behavioural support, roughly doubles the chance of successfully quitting compared to trying alone. Free quitline and counselling support exist specifically for this.

When to seek help

You don't need to be “ready” in any particular way to ask for help — cutting down, quitting, and relapsing are all valid points to ask for support.

Services that can help

See all related services in NL