When it comes to smoking cessation efforts, Federal managers are in a unique position to help employees because the Federal government is committed to smoking cessation. As such, Federal managers can support employees by helping them achieve success with the single most important health decision they may make in their lives - the decision to quit smoking.

Smoking exacts a harsh toll on Americans. Here are some striking facts about the costs of smoking in the United States:

• Tobacco is the single greatest cause of disease and premature death in America today and is responsible for more than 440,000 deaths each year
• Americans spend an estimated $75 billion annually on direct medical care for smoking-related illnesses.
• Lost productivity and forfeited earnings due to smoking-related disability account for $92 billion per year
• An estimated 8.6 million people in the United States suffer from at least one serious illness that can be connected to smoking

FOH’s Smoking Cessation Program

Intake Interview:

FOH staff will speak with the employee and help the employee assess readiness to quit smoking. Key information is provided at the conclusion of the intake interview based on the employee’s level of readiness to quit.

Education:

Employees are provided with a helpful guidebook and educational handouts that include topics and information to help employees cope through the toughest phases of smoking cessation.

Written Quit Plan:

FOH staff assist the employee in devising their written quit plan. This plan is individualized during the interaction with FOH staff, and is highly specific to the employee.

Nicotine Replacement Therapy:

FOH provides a one-month supply of non-prescription nicotine patches, gum or lozenges to help the employee minimize the effects of withdrawal from the effects of nicotine addiction.

Ongoing support:

Employees are provided support through ongoing counseling. FOH provides employees with a place to go for support and encouragement. Staff at the FOH health units provide confidential counseling to employees who need occasional or ongoing encouragement during the process of quitting.

FOH Complementary Programs:

EAP Services

FOH manages the largest Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for Federal employees. The process of smoking cessation is highly individual and different people need varying amounts of assistance with their efforts to quit. As an adjunct to its Smoking Cessation Program, the EAP can provide supportive services to help employees cope with additional life stressors that might affect the success of a cessation effort. The EAP is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and can provide individualized counseling, strategies for making positive lifestyle changes, and even stress management training. Learn more about FOH’s EAP Services

Wellness/Fitness Services

FOH’s Wellness/Fitness Services are available to help employees improve their health. Participating in regular exercise can ease symptoms associated with withdrawal from nicotine. An additional benefit of exercise is that it burns excess calories and, for many who consider smoking cessation, weight gain is a significant concern. Learn more about FOH’s Wellness Fitness Services