JOURNAL List 7 reasons why you think some teens start to use tobacco.

Each day 4,800 teens try their first cigarette. The good news: - The majority of young teens don’t smoke, in addition, smoking amongst high school students has declined. The bad news: Each day 4,800 teens try their first cigarette. Of this group, 2,000 will become regular smokers. 1/3 of this group will die from smoking related diseases.

Why teens start smoking: Internal Influences: Stress Weight Image Peer Acceptance Independence

Why teens start smoking cont….. External Influences: Imitate role model Peer Pressure Entertainment Advertising Family Members/Adults

HOW NOT TO START 2. Avoid situations where tobacco is present. 1. Choose friends who don’t use tobacco 2. Avoid situations where tobacco is present. 3. Use refusal skills: NO, EXCUSE, WALK AWAY

Strategies for Quitting 1. Cold Turkey – stopping all at once 2. Nicotine Patch - a medication that allows tobacco users to give up tobacco right away while gradually cutting down on the nicotine.