Quitline launches text support service

It’s now even easier to get help and support from Quitline via text anytime, anywhere.

Texting is a convenient way to communicate and for some makes for an easy first step when reaching out for help. Anyone can free text to enrol in a quit smoking program, or ask for advice and support with their quit smoking journey.

Offering support by text has already proven to be effective, with one study concluding smokers who used mobile messaging interventions were twice as likely to make it six months without smoking than those who didn’t.

Texting boasts a range of benefits including allowing people to be anonymous, it can be a more comfortable way for people to articulate their thoughts, texting doesn’t alert others and can be handy when smokers aren’t able to make a phone call.

We have heard from someone who was sitting with their family watching TV when suddenly the urge to smoke had kicked in. Rather needing to call they were able to discreetly message Quitline for a few quick tips, which helped them fight the urge to smoke.

Another person who got in touch was surrounded by friends at a BBQ, many of whom where smoking. This is often a tough situation for smokers who have quit, who can feel more confident knowing they have instant access to Quitline from their very own pocket.

Text messaging is especially beneficial to those in the Deaf community. It’s available to people of all ages and is available in Te Reo.

Since launching in May over 4297 text conversations have taken place with Quitline.

Available anytime and from anywhere, by free texting ‘QUIT’ to 4006 and by calling 0800 778 778. Information is also available online and via the Quit blogs at www.quit.org.nz

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