The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) is now offering a new program for teens who want to quit using tobacco, including e-cigarettes and vape. The new My Life My Quit program includes educational materials designed for teens, created through focus groups with teens, subject matter experts and community stakeholders. Teens can text or call a toll-free number (855-891-9989) dedicated for teens, or they can visit mylifemyquit.com for real-time coaching. 

Through the program, teens work with a coach who listens and understands their unique needs, provides personalized support, and helps them build a quit plan to become free from nicotine. 

My Life, My Quit provides youth access to tailored resources for quitting, including free and confidential help from a quit coach specially trained to listen to teens as well as help for teens to navigate social situations that involve tobacco or vaping, and a means to find healthy ways to cope with stress. Tobacco Program Coordinator Chelsea Bagby with Marion County Public Health tells KNIA/KRLS News if parents suspect their child of smoking or vaping there are many resources online to help with information. Bagby says to have a conversation with your child but be prepared to listen and to show empathy for what they might be dealing with. 

Anyone interested in the program is asked to visit mylifemyquit.com which will provide online enrollment for the program as well as live chat with a coach, information about vaping and tobacco, and activities to support quitting and stress relief