Many people who smoke, vape, or chew want to quit. Quitting is possible and it’s one of the best choices a person can make to improve their health and protect their loved ones from cancer-causing chemicals.

It’s still early 2023, and many people are setting goals to live happier, healthier lives. If you or a loved one would like to start living tobacco-free, Project Filter can help.

What is Project Filter?

Project Filter is a state health program that supports people who want to quit smoking, vaping, or chewing. The program’s motto is, “You decide when, and we will show you how.” The program also coordinates with policymakers, community organizations, and schools to help prevent people from using tobacco products. If you never start, after all, you never have to quit.

How does Project Filter support people on their quit journeys?

Quitting is hard. It takes most people multiple tries to stay tobacco free. Many people have an easier time quitting with the supportive help of loved ones and free resources from Project Filter.  

According to former smokers, calling The Idaho QuitLine is one of the best steps you can take to quit successfully. In fact, people who call are seven times more likely to quit using tobacco. The Quitline can be reached 24 hours a day, seven days a week by calling 1-800-QUIT-NOW. You can also watch this short video to hear how Idahoans have quit with the help of Idaho Quitline.

QuitLine coaches are encouraging and well-trained. They know quitting is a personal journey and will help callers tailor their quit plans to their individual needs.  Coaches can also help people find quit medications in the form of patches, gum, and lozenges, which can be shipped directly to people’s homes free of charge.

Finally, the QuitLine serves a wide array of Idahoans and has unique programs tailored for people who are pregnant, living with mental illness, or are Native American. The Idaho Quitline also has coaches who speak Spanish and coaches who work with translators to support people who speak any other language.

Vaping and youth tobacco use

My Life, My Quit is a free and confidential coaching program specifically designed for teens and young adults. The program helps teens and young adults quit vaping or smoking, and the sessions can be done through text messages, chat, or phone calls.

Teens can sign up on www.mylifemyquit.com, which also has resources for parents.

Where can people go for more information?

• For free and compassionate support to quit smoking, vaping, or chewing call 1-800-QUIT-NOW or visit http://www.ProjectFilter.org to learn more.
• For teen-specific resources, look up www.mylifemyquit.com.
• Follow Project Filter on Instagram or Facebook: @projectfilter.

Ashtin Glodt is manager for Project Filter and works in the Division of Public Health. She has six years of education and six years of professional experience in public health. She is especially passionate about promoting equitable community access to health resources.

The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare is dedicated to strengthening Idahoans' health, safety, and independence. Learn more at healthandwelfare.idaho.gov.