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Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs

Many people struggle with addiction. Regular use of alcohol, tobacco or drugs, even prescription drugs, can lead to addiction—you can’t stop even if you want to. Addiction can ruin your life and the lives of those you love.

The first step toward healing is to admit that you need help. Talk to a counselor or doctor who knows about addiction. Drug treatment programs and support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) can help.

If a relative or friend has an addiction problem, talk to a counselor. You may find it helpful to go to a support group like Al-Anon, or Alateen if you are a teen.

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs
“My drinking was hurting my relationship with my wife and kids. With help, I was able to stop.”


How to Stop Smoking

  • Get support—let your friends and family know you are quitting.
  • Acupuncture or nicotine patches or gum can help.
  • Wait out the urge to smoke—it will pass.
  • Some people find it easier to stop all at once. Others give up one cigarette each day until they’re down to none.
  • Find something healthy to chew on when you feel like smoking. Raw vegetables make a great low-calorie snack.
  • Exercise helps too. Enjoy breathing the fresh air.
  • Promise yourself a special treat when you quit.
  • For help, call California Smokers’ Helpline or visit www.nobutts.ucsd.edu.
Stop Now

Stop Now

Children of parents who smoke are more likely to be born premature and have low birth weight, asthma, allergies, colds and infections. They are also at greater risk of SIDS.

Things You Can Do

Where to Find Help

Learn More

Do You Have an Alcohol or Drug Problem?

    • Do you use it every day?
    • Do you use more now than before?
    • Do you use it more than you want?
    • Do others say you use too much?
    • Do you lie about how much you use?
    • Does it interfere with your job?
    • Does it cause you money problems?
    • Does it hurt the people around you?
    • Does it cause you health problems?
    • Do you want to stop but can’t?

    Even one Yes answer means you could have a problem and may need help. Call Alcohol and Drug Abuse.

Are You Pregnant or Trying to Get Pregnant?

  • Alcohol, drugs and smoking can seriously harm your developing baby. Try to stop before you become pregnant. If you can’t stop on your own, don’t be ashamed. Get help. Whenever you stop, it will help your baby. Call Drug and Alcohol Resource Center.

    Are you worried about how drugs, medications or chemicals could affect your developing baby? Call March of Dimes or visit
    www.modimes.org.