Unity Day is Wednesday, October 19. PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center started Unity Day in 2011. The purpose of Unity Day is to demonstrate that we are together against bullying. We are united for kindness, acceptance and inclusion of all students. Get involved! Wear and share the color ORANGE on Unity Day! Join …

School-based bullying has decreased for the first time since data have been collected, which is very encouraging. Yet, certain groups of youth may be at greater risk for bullying due to a perceived power imbalance. During bullying prevention awareness month, we featured the voices of some of these youth including …

Schools across the U.S. frequently confront the issue of bullying among their student population. However, identifying the nature of a specific bullying problem (including its symptoms and causes) in a given school—and implementing solutions that work—is complicated. While research on evidence-based programs is helpful in guiding school personnel toward solutions …

Pediatric health care providers are an important, front line, family-trusted group that can not only detect the warning signs of victimization, but are also in a position to advise parents and advocate for their patients. It is important for health care providers to be prepared to screen and counsel children …

Bullying is a form of youth violence – and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has resources states and communities can use to stop it. Bullying is a serious public health problem. Bullying can result in physical injury, social and emotional distress, and even death. In 2015, about …

How do you think a grade school class would react if a classmate suddenly became silent? They may not know what they are seeing, so they speculate and create stories about what is going on. Maybe he contracted an illness. Maybe she is so tired she was sleeping while awake. …

Kindness Matters While being kind might sound easy, it is complex. If kindness was simple, then everyone would be kind and no one would experience meanness and bullying. Imagine a world where kindness is the norm. Is it possible to create homes, schools, and communities where kindness is the norm? …

Suicide and bullying are public health problems that affect youth. Suicide was the second leading cause of death among youth ages 10-24 in 2015. While most youth who are involved in bullying do not engage in suicide-related behaviors, those who have been bullied or who bully others are more likely …

Be Someone’s Hero About one in five teens reports being bullied, which is harmful, but preventable. This video will support a larger effort on the VetoViolence Facebook page during National Bullying Prevention Awareness Month in October 2017.

Measuring prevention of bullying can be difficult. Over time, we can see if the number of incidents is decreasing, but determining if prevention efforts are working along the way remains a challenge. Recently, a team of bullying and violence prevention experts came together to figure out how best to measure …

When kids are electronically (cyber) bullied, it can be hard for parents to detect, until it becomes an overwhelming issue. A cyberbully can be a close friend or a faceless entity, a single force or a group of people. Often kids and teens don’t share their online interactions with their parents, until …

Anticipate potential problems or risks with your child Having conversations about phone use and cyberbullying before any problems arise can set the tone that you are open and will be thoughtful, if they should happen to need you. Remember if they do not come to you at all when things …

You might think that an NFL player wouldn’t know what it feels like to be bullied, but I do. When I was a kid, classmates sometimes would pick on me and make fun of the gap between my front teeth. What they didn’t know is that my gap is like …

February 26 – March 4, 2018 is Eating Disorders Awareness Week and an opportunity to talk about the connection between bullying and eating disorders. Weight-based teasing and bullying have been identified as common experiences for youth, particularly for those who may be heavier. Children whose peers tease them about their …

Image Students with a behavioral, emotional, or developmental disability are at a greater risk for bullying – in fact, according to a study published in the American Academy of Pediatrics (2006), the rate is about twice as high as typical kids. In our state of Delaware, public school enrollment of …

Don’t be a bystander when it comes to bullying. Be an Upstander! StopBullying.gov has new resources to help you safely upstand to bullying. For example, our new Bystander Fact Sheet details the different roles bystanders play in stopping or enabling the bullying behavior. We have also released the new Become …

For children, summer is a time for rest, family vacations, camp, and fun with friends. With a more relaxed schedule, online gaming, texting, and time on social media may also increase. The summer break can be a great time for parents to refresh bullying prevention strategies, strengthen communication with their …

Going back to school is a milestone for parents, caregivers and children. It’s a time of transition when children and teens may be both excited and nervous about entering a new grade or school. As you prepare for this new school year, take time to reflect with your child about …

Editor’s note: This back-to-school blog was originally published by the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention in 2018. For the latest statistics on bullying, visit our Facts About Bullying section. The beginning of a new school year is an exciting time for most students. Unfortunately, …

Mentoring can take many forms, from formal relationships in professional settings, to informal relationships based on specific goals or activities. Role modeling and mentoring youth on positive social behavior and bullying prevention doesn’t have to be formalized. Mentoring can be done in daily interactions, classroom settings, group activities, online, and …

Image You care about the children and teens in your family, neighborhood, and community. You want to help prevent bullying, but might not know where to start. There are many things you can do to prevent or address bullying. You can have an impact, whether thru seemingly small, in-the-moment actions …

Image Everyone involved in a bullying situation is affected. A recent study on cumulative experiences of bullying found that youth involvement in bullying over time – either as the one who bullies, the one who is bullied, or as a bystander who helps bullies – resulted in multiple negative outcomes. …

Bullying is an unwanted aggressive behavior characterized by repetition (i.e., it is repeated or has a high likelihood of being repeated), and a power imbalance that is observed or perceived (i.e., youth bullying others have more physical and/or social power than bullied youth). The behavior is intentional and can result …

Image Adverse childhood experiences, or ACEs, are potentially traumatic events that can have negative, lasting effects on a person. For children and youth in situations of prolonged and repeated abuse – like bullying and cyberbullying – the impact can affect their development, the way they interact with others, and how …

Image Bullying can happen anywhere, not just at school. When the power of a community is brought together to address it, bullying can be prevented. Community-wide strategies can help identify and support children who are bullied, redirect the behavior of children who bully, and change the attitudes of adults and …

Image Bullying may seriously affect the mental health and well being of children and youth. Parents, teachers, coaches, and other youth-serving adults are in positions where they are able to notice when there are signs of mental distress or bullying behavior. Research suggests that children and youth who are bullied …

Image National Bullying Prevention Awareness Month is a great time to mobilize your community to develop a plan to prevent and address bullying. Parents, educators, elected officials, students, health and safety providers, recreation, faith-based, and business leaders all have a role to play in keeping children and teens in your …

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Image Experiencing bullying at school can impact a student’s mental health, wellbeing, and academic achievement. According to CDC’s Youth Risk Behavior Survey, in 2017, 19% of U.S. high school students were bullied at school, and 6.7% didn’t go to school at least one day during the previous 30 days because …

Image Mentors can be protective factors for youth Mentors are dependable adults that can help youth build trust, form new relationships and develop important skills. Mentors are role models for youth that exist outside of the family unit. Mentors can support youth to develop self-awareness, build skills to manage their …

Image During this time of social distancing, parents and caregivers play an important role in helping children stay healthy. This includes helping children remain positive, active, and connected to their friends and peers. Silence or lack of contact with friends can make some children feel rejected, insecure, or confused. Parents …

Image Join the Twitter Chat on Mental Health and Bullying May 20 at 2 p.m. ET In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, StopBullying.gov invites you to join the Twitter Chat on Mental Health and Bullying May 20 at 2 p.m. EST with our partners the American Public Health Association, …

On April 27, 2020, the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention at the Department of Justice hosted an online webinar, “Understanding and Combatting Cyberbullying and Digital/Online Hate.” Watch the Webinar Objectives To provide an overview of cyber hate and cyberbullying and how they reach and affect our nation’s youth …

Image 30th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) This month marks the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which was signed into law on July 26, 1990. The ADA prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability and guarantees that people with disabilities have the same …

Image Most teenagers have smartphones. Even before social distancing guidelines took effect, teenagers spent a lot of time on their phones and online. Social media and online platforms provide ways to connect and share thoughts with friends, acquaintances, and others. It can also be a place where conversations can quickly …

Image Going back to school this year looks a bit different for all students. Some students are attending class in person, some are learning from home, and others may be doing both. Building a safe and supportive learning environment for all kinds of learning is key to preventing bullying. Bullying …

Image Prevent Bullying Every Day As reported on the 2019 Indicators of School Crime and Safety report, about 20% of students ages 12-18 reported being bullied in 2017. Among students ages 12-18 who reported being bullied during the school year, 15% were bullied online or by text. National Bullying Prevention …

Image January is National Mentoring Month, an annual observance to celebrate mentoring and the positive effects mentors have on young people. Generally, mentoring describes an older, more experienced person providing support and advice to a younger person (or mentee). Mentors can help their mentees build skills, develop relationships, overcome challenges, …

Image School climate describes the quality and character of school life and is an important factor in students’ social and emotional experiences. A healthy school environment is safe, inclusive, respectful, and free from violence and bullying. One of the easiest ways to create a positive school climate is by being …

Image After a year of virtual and hybrid schooling, many children are returning to in-person learning. This is welcome news. In addition to the academic and social engagement schools provide, they also offer critical services and benefits that include school supported resources like meal programs, special education, mental health services, …

Image It’s summertime! Now that the school year has come to an end, students will soon engage in different summer activities like sports, arts, and faith-based camps. These and other types of extra-curricular activities help children develop skills, find new friends, pursue their interests, and become involved in their community. …

The Summit is hosted by the Department of Education and will bring these groups and individuals together to discuss the successes and challenges of addressing bullying, and what needs to be done in the year to come. We’ve come a long way in the past year, but there is much …

Yesterday, Cynthia Germanotta and I had the opportunity to discuss how to empower young people and end bullying at the Third Annual Bullying Prevention Summit in Washington, D.C. Cynthia and her daughter, Lady Gaga, recently founded the Born This Way Foundation to empower young people with the skills and opportunities they …

When I helped close the third annual Federal Partners in Bullying Prevention Summit on Tuesday, my colleagues and I gave attendees a simple charge: what are you going to do to further bullying prevention in the next year? At the summit we heard about the diverse and expansive efforts of …

Youth from around the country and those overseas in U.S. Department of Defense schools, aged 13 to 18 years, took our challenge and submitted almost 900 entries for the 2012 StopBullying.gov Video Challenge! The Federal Partners in Bullying Prevention have worked our way through all the creative videos and screened …

January is National Mentoring Month. Research has shown that mentoring programs can be an effective tool for enhancing the positive development of youth in the foster care system. Over the past three decades, the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) has supported a variety of mentoring programs to …

The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) is proud of its long history of working with the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN) and other student groups to promote healthy kids and safe schools. These partnerships are a great chance for HRSA to reach youth in their schools and …

In the past year, the Federal Partners in Bullying Prevention has hosted several free webinars to bring attention to a variety of topic areas in bullying prevention and response. These webinars attracted parents, educators, as well as many other community members. These webinar materials are still available for your use. …

In order to stop bullying before it begins, it is necessary to improve the consistency and comparability of data on bullying. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Department of Education (ED), and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) partnered with bullying experts to develop a uniform definition …

Today, StopBullying.gov launched two new videos and an animated GIF that address the issue of labels and how words can do harm. This project is a result of regular engagement and collaboration with one of the main audiences for StopBullying.gov: teens. Communication professionals pride themselves on coming up with big …

In April 2014, 34 4-H youth from across the country arrived at the US Department of Education (ED) to participate in a briefing as part of the National 4-H Conference. Federal briefings are a regular part of the annual National 4-H Conference and allow youth to present on a topic …

Parents and caregivers are a child’s first and best teacher. Your child is listening and remembering your advice, even when it seems like he/she is not paying attention. In fact, spending 15 minutes a day listening and talking with your child can help build the foundation for a strong relationship …

“Outstanding” and “irreplaceable” were just two adjectives used to describe the fourth Federal Bullying Prevention Summit – “Keeping Kids Safe: Opportunities and Challenges in Bullying Prevention.”  The Summit was the culmination of many months of hard work by the Summit Planning Committee, a sub-committee of the larger Federal Partners in …

October is National Bullying Prevention Awareness Month and it’s a good time for schools (including personnel and students), communities, districts, and states to take stock of current efforts to reduce and prevent bullying. Do current school climates make students feel safe, allowing them to thrive academically and socially? Are youth …

Social media, when done right, holds great promise for public health practitioners. As the adoption of Facebook, Twitter, and other online engagement tools become more common among leaders of the field, so too will the insights and sharing of best practices. With more than one in five youth between the …

Bullying has long been viewed as a rite of passage for young people today. But bullying is not a normal part of adolescence and is now appropriately considered to be a serious public health problem with long-term consequences. According to national surveys, the prevalence of bullying in schools ranges from …

The recently released National Academies report, Preventing Bullying Through Science, Policy, and Practice (May 2016), presents a lot of actionable findings and recommendations. Our partners at the Children’s Safety Network (CSN) hosted a webinar series this summer, highlighting three major topic areas covered in the report: The Consequences of Bullying, …

On Friday, Aug. 12, 2016, the Federal Partners in Bullying Prevention hosted the fifth Federal Bullying Prevention Summit at the U.S. Department of Education. Conducted every two years, this year’s theme was “Keeping Kids Safe: Promoting Tolerance and Inclusion Among Students to Prevent Bullying.” Senior officials from the U.S. Departments …

This month, the world comes together to raise awareness for bullying prevention and to reflect on where we have been, where we are now, and where we hope to be in the years to come. This year’s Bullying Prevention Awareness Month marks the 10th anniversary of its initiation by PACER’s …

Measuring prevention of bullying can be difficult. Over time, we can see if the number of incidents is decreasing, but determining if prevention efforts are working along the way remains a challenge. Recently, a team of bullying and violence prevention experts came together to figure out how best to measure …

On August 20, 2018, the biannual Federal Bullying Prevention Summit took place in Rockville, MD. This year’s theme was cyberbullying and was hosted by the Federal Partners in Bullying Prevention, joined by former First Lady Melania Trump. Senior officials from the U.S. Departments of Education, Health and Human Services, and …

Editor’s note: This back-to-school blog was originally published by the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention in 2018. For the latest statistics on bullying, visit our Facts About Bullying section. The beginning of a new school year is an exciting time for most students. Unfortunately, …

Image Pictured (from left): Bethany Miller, HRSA, Injury and Violence Prevention Team Lead; Justine Larson, SAMHSA, Senior Medical Advisor; RADM Kerry Nesseler, HRSA, Director of the Office of Global Health; Nicole White, ED, Education Program Specialist Recently, the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) hosted a special visit with representatives …

Image Mentors can be protective factors for youth Mentors are dependable adults that can help youth build trust, form new relationships and develop important skills. Mentors are role models for youth that exist outside of the family unit. Mentors can support youth to develop self-awareness, build skills to manage their …

  Findings and conclusions reported in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of the U.S. Department of Justice. As we have come to recognize bullying as a significant problem within our school systems, a number of programs have been …

Stand Up to Bullying YouTube video Today’s kids use technology more than ever. While technology can be a great tool to communicate, learn, and socialize, it can also be used in harmful ways, and allow some kids to take bullying from school hallways into cyberspace. Cyberbullying happens when kids bully …

Back when MySpace was popular, almost every student at my high school had a profile. For us MySpace was an online-place where we could thoroughly express ourselves. We would post pictures from our latest and greatest adventures, update our status to our current mood, and choose backgrounds and music that …

In the world of social media and online networking, the issue of safety continuously arises, particularly among teenagers.  Cyberbullying, bullying that takes place using electronic technology, has unique challenges when compared to more traditional forms of bullying. Parents need to be aware of what their teens are doing online and talk …

More and more, law-enforcement officers are being called in to handle cases of cyberbullying among kids and teens. If you aren’t familiar with the term, cyberbullying is bullying through technology, such as computers and cell phones. You may have seen cases in the news where police were involved as part …

Thousands of young people are targets of bullying and cyberbullying every day, putting many at risk for outcomes such as depression or school absenteeism. Working with kids to create ways to address these issues is an important responsibility for adults. For example, adults can help those who are targets of …

What is Cyberbullying? Cyberbullying is bullying that takes place using electronic technology. Electronic technology includes devices and equipment such as cell phones, computers, and tablets as well as communication tools including social media sites, text messages, chat, and websites. Cyberbullying is similar to traditional bullying in many ways; however, the …

With constantly evolving and new technologies and apps, people are spending a lot of time online and on smartphones. Texting, apps, and social media have become a primary way to communicate. While we can now connect more quickly and easily, if messages are ill intended and hurtful, the virtual abuse …

When kids are electronically (cyber) bullied, it can be hard for parents to detect, until it becomes an overwhelming issue. A cyberbully can be a close friend or a faceless entity, a single force or a group of people. Often kids and teens don’t share their online interactions with their parents, until …

Anticipate potential problems or risks with your child Having conversations about phone use and cyberbullying before any problems arise can set the tone that you are open and will be thoughtful, if they should happen to need you. Remember if they do not come to you at all when things …

On August 20, 2018, the biannual Federal Bullying Prevention Summit took place in Rockville, MD. This year’s theme was cyberbullying and was hosted by the Federal Partners in Bullying Prevention, joined by former First Lady Melania Trump. Senior officials from the U.S. Departments of Education, Health and Human Services, and …

Going back to school is a milestone for parents, caregivers and children. It’s a time of transition when children and teens may be both excited and nervous about entering a new grade or school. As you prepare for this new school year, take time to reflect with your child about …

Image Pictured (from left): Bethany Miller, HRSA, Injury and Violence Prevention Team Lead; Justine Larson, SAMHSA, Senior Medical Advisor; RADM Kerry Nesseler, HRSA, Director of the Office of Global Health; Nicole White, ED, Education Program Specialist Recently, the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) hosted a special visit with representatives …

On April 27, 2020, the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention at the Department of Justice hosted an online webinar, “Understanding and Combatting Cyberbullying and Digital/Online Hate.” Watch the Webinar Objectives To provide an overview of cyber hate and cyberbullying and how they reach and affect our nation’s youth …

Image Most teenagers have smartphones. Even before social distancing guidelines took effect, teenagers spent a lot of time on their phones and online. Social media and online platforms provide ways to connect and share thoughts with friends, acquaintances, and others. It can also be a place where conversations can quickly …

Late one Tuesday night, I received a text from the mother of my son’s friend. She told me that we needed to talk NOW; would I call her? Two weeks earlier, my 15-year-old son had broken down in tears over the harassment he was receiving at school. What I did …

In 2011, suicide continued to be the second leading cause of death for youth and young adults ages 10 to 24 years old according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Web-based Injury Statistics Query and Reporting System (WISQARS). That same year, over 20% of high school students participating …

With constantly evolving and new technologies and apps, people are spending a lot of time online and on smartphones. Texting, apps, and social media have become a primary way to communicate. While we can now connect more quickly and easily, if messages are ill intended and hurtful, the virtual abuse …

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 1 in 5 people aged 6 to 19 in the United States are obese. And being perceived as different—such as being overweight or underweight—is one of the most common reasons why kids get bullied. Many people living in higher-weight bodies …

Image Bullying may seriously affect the mental health and well being of children and youth. Parents, teachers, coaches, and other youth-serving adults are in positions where they are able to notice when there are signs of mental distress or bullying behavior. Research suggests that children and youth who are bullied …

Image Join the Twitter Chat on Mental Health and Bullying May 20 at 2 p.m. ET In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, StopBullying.gov invites you to join the Twitter Chat on Mental Health and Bullying May 20 at 2 p.m. EST with our partners the American Public Health Association, …

Everyone reacts differently to stressful situations. The past several months have put unprecedented strains on many families and parents and children may not have access to familiar coping tools like sports, arts programs, hanging out with friends, or group activities. To help their children cope, parents can initiate open, age-appropriate …

Image May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Analyses of CDC’s 2019 Youth Risk Behavior Survey data shows that more than 1 in 3 high school students experienced persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness in the 12 months preceding the survey, a 40 percent increase since 2009. Bullying may be a …

Are you being bullied? Do you see bullying at your school? There are things you can do to keep yourself and the kids you know safe from bullying. Treat Everyone with Respect What to Do If You’re Bullied Protect Yourself from Cyberbullying Stand Up for Others Get Involved Treat Everyone …

Bullying stops us from being who we want to be, and prevents us from expressing ourselves freely, and might even make us feel unsafe. If you are bullied, say something! If you are bullying, it’s not cool! I might be being bullied SPEAK UP: If you feel uncomfortable with the …

Adults have a major role in helping to prevent bullying. Find out what you can do: Parents Educators Community Parents Parents play a key role in preventing and responding to bullying. If you know or suspect that your child is involved in bullying, there are several resources that may help. …

Stopbullying.gov resources include Fact Sheets, Research Summaries, and Infographics that provide current research findings, evidence-based strategies, and data on bullying prevention. The resources can be utilized for bullying prevention by youth, parents, educators, youth-serving professionals, schools, health care providers, organizations, communities, and states.  The resources can be shared, downloaded, and …

Getting Started The Bullying Prevention Training Module Presentation is a research-based resource that can help you lead bullying prevention efforts in your local community. Bullying Prevention Training Module – PowerPoint Bullying Prevention Training Module – PDF Organizing a Community Event The Community Action Toolkit includes materials to create a community …

State and local lawmakers have taken action to prevent bullying and protect children 1 . Each jurisdiction, including all 50 states, the District of Columbia and U.S. territories (state), addresses bullying differently.  Some have established laws, policies, and regulations 2 . Others have developed model policies schools and local educational …

Media coverage of social issues has a profound impact on how communities understand and address problems. Research and expert opinion suggest that certain trends in media coverage of bullying have the potential to do harm. This section offers help to journalists, bloggers, the entertainment creative community, and others who are …

This section pulls together fundamental information about bullying, including: Definition Research on Bullying Bullying Statistics Bullying and Suicide Anti-Bullying Laws Definition of Bullying In 2014, the Centers for Disease Control and Department of Education released the first federal definition of bullying. The definition includes three core elements: unwanted aggressive behavior …

If you or someone you know is being bullied, there are things you can do to keep yourself and others safe from bullying. What Kids Can Do What Teens Can Do What Adults Can Do If you or someone you know is involved in cyberbullying, it is important to document and report …

Resilience is the ability to overcome serious hardship and adapt well when faced with adverse experiences. Beyond being a personal characteristic or trait (i.e., “She is resilient.”), resilience also refers to the process of overcoming threats, difficulties, and traumas. Being resilient is an outcome of that process. Children and youth who experience adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) …

Someone who witnesses bullying, either in person or online, is a bystander. Friends, students, peers, teachers, school staff, parents, coaches, and other youth-serving adults can be bystanders. With cyberbullying, even strangers can be bystanders. Youth involved in bullying play many different roles. Witnessing bullying is upsetting and affects the bystander, …

All kids involved in bullying—whether they are bullied, bully others, or see bullying—can be affected. It is important to support all kids involved to make sure the bullying doesn’t continue and effects can be minimized. Support Kids Who are Bullied Address Bullying Behavior Support Bystanders Who Witness Bullying Support Kids …

Whether you’ve just stopped bullying on the spot or a child has reached out to you for help, follow the steps below to determine the best way to proceed. Get the Facts Keep all the involved children separate.  Get the story from several sources, both adults and kids. Listen without …

 Stop Bullying on the Spot  When adults respond quickly and consistently to bullying behavior they send the message that it is not acceptable. Research shows this can stop bullying behavior over time. There are simple steps adults can take to stop bullying on the spot and keep kids safe. Do: …

Extra-curricular activities are a great way to provide youth with opportunities. It lets children follow their interests and be involved in activities outside the classroom. Whether it’s sports, arts, cultural and faith-based groups or other programs, youth can learn new skills through hands-on practice, creative projects, and teamwork. They can …

Bullying can be prevented, especially when the power of a community is brought together. Community-wide strategies can help identify and support children who are bullied, redirect the behavior of children who bully, and change the attitudes of adults and youth who tolerate bullying behaviors in peer groups, schools, and communities.  …

A safe and supportive school climate can help prevent bullying. Safety starts in the classroom. Students should also feel and be safe everywhere on campus—in the cafeteria, in the library, in the rest rooms, on the bus, and on the playground. Everyone at school can work together to create a …

School staff can help prevent bullying by establishing and enforcing school rules and policies that clearly describe how students are expected to treat each other. Consequences for violations of the rules should be clearly defined as well.  Types of Rules and Policies Integrating Rules and Policies into a School’s Culture …

School staff can do a great deal to prevent bullying and protect students, but they can’t do it alone. Parents and youth also have a role to play in preventing bullying at school. One mechanism for engaging parents and youth, a school safety committee, can bring the community together to …

Assessments—such as surveys—can help schools determine the frequency and locations of bullying behavior. They can also gauge the effectiveness of current prevention and intervention efforts. Knowing what’s going on can help school staff select appropriate prevention and response strategies. Assessments involve asking school or community members—including students—about their experiences and …

Bullying can threaten students’ physical and emotional safety at school and can negatively impact their ability to learn. The best way to address bullying is to stop it before it starts. There are a number of things school staff can do to make schools safer and prevent bullying. Training school …

Parents, school staff, and other caring adults have a role to play in preventing bullying. They can:  Help kids understand bullying. Talk about what bullying is and how to stand up to it safely. Tell kids bullying is unacceptable. Make sure kids know how to get help. Keep the lines …

What is a “Hater?” “Hater” is a label used to refer to people who use negative and critical comments and behavior to bring another person down by making them look or feel bad. These hurtful and negative comments can be delivered in person, online, or in texts and apps. Often, …

When cyberbullying happens, it is important to document and report the behavior so it can be addressed. Steps to Take Immediately Don’t respond to and don’t forward cyberbullying messages. Keep evidence of cyberbullying. Record the dates, times, and descriptions of instances when cyberbullying has occurred. Save and print screenshots, emails, …

Warning Signs a Child Is Being Cyberbullied or Is Cyberbullying A child may be involved in cyberbullying in several ways. A child can be bullied, bully others, or witness bullying. Parents, teachers, and other adults may not be aware of all the social media platforms and apps that a child …

Tips for Parents: Talk to Your Child about Appropriate Digital Behavior and Content Parents create trust with children by initiating open, honest discussions. These dialogues are an opportunity to communicate values and expectations about your family’s appropriate digital behavior, including viewing or sharing content, and apps they can and cannot use. …

The digital world is constantly evolving with new social media platforms, apps, and devices, and children and teens are often the first to use them. Some negative things that may occur include cyberbullying, sexting, posting hateful messages or content, and participating in negative group conversations. If your child posts harmful …

Playing videogames is a popular activity, with 70 percent of youth under the age of 18 playing videogames. Some games are solitary or single-player games; others are multi-player. Multi-player games – whether they are played on a computer, game console, handheld system, smartphone, or tablet – allow users to play …

Digital media and apps allow children to communicate and express their creativity, connect with peers, and share their feelings. However, they can be an avenue through which cyberbullying occurs. There are many types of apps and sites available for free that give users the ability to search for people and …

Be Aware of What Your Kids are Doing Online A child may be involved in cyberbullying in several ways. A child can be bullied, bully others, or witness bullying. Parents, teachers, and other adults may not be aware of all the digital media  and apps that a child is using. …

It is important to understand how children are cyberbullied so it can be easily recognized and action can be taken. Some of the most common cyberbullying tactics include: Posting comments or rumors about someone online that are mean, hurtful, or embarrassing. Threatening to hurt someone or telling them to kill …

Cyberbullying is bullying that takes place over digital devices like cell phones, computers, and tablets. Cyberbullying can occur through SMS, Text, and apps, or online in social media, forums, or gaming where people can view, participate in, or share content. Cyberbullying includes sending, posting, or sharing negative, harmful, false, or …

There are many other types of aggressive behavior that don’t fit the definition of bullying. This does not mean that they are any less serious or require less attention than bullying. Rather, these behaviors require different prevention and response strategies. Early Childhood Peer Conflict Teen Dating Violence Hazing Gang Violence …

Children with disabilities—such as physical, developmental, intellectual, emotional, and sensory disabilities—are at an increased risk of being bullied. Any number of factors— physical vulnerability, social skill challenges, or intolerant environments—may increase the risk. Research suggests that some children with disabilities may bully others as well. Kids with special health needs, …

According to the U.S. Department of Defense, in 2017 there were 1.6 million children and youth with parents who serve in the active duty military, National Guard, and Reserve forces. Military-connected children and youth face unique challenges that may impact their risk for bullying. For example, they can experience stressors …

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or questioning (LGBTQ) youth and those perceived as LGBTQ are at an increased risk of being bullied. Results from the 2017 Youth Risk Behavior Survey show that, nationwide, more U.S. high school students who self-identify as lesbian, gay, or bisexual (LGB) report having been bullied on …

Schools and communities that respect diversity can help protect children against bullying behavior. However, when children perceived as different are not in supportive environments, they may be at a higher risk of being bullied. When working with kids from different groups, there are specific things you can do to prevent …

Bullying can have lasting impacts on everyone involved: the person being bullied; bystanders who witness the bullying; and the person who bullies others. In fact, bullying is considered an Adverse Childhood Experience (ACE). ACEs are potentially traumatic events that can have negative, lasting effects on a person’s development, the way …

Bullying can affect everyone—those who are bullied, those who bully, and those who witness bullying. Bullying is linked to many negative outcomes including impacts on mental health, substance use, and suicide. It is important to talk to kids to determine whether bullying—or something else—is a concern. Kids Who are Bullied …

There are many warning signs that may indicate that someone is affected by bullying—either being bullied or bullying others. Recognizing the warning signs is an important first step in taking action against bullying. Not all children who are bullied or are bullying others ask for help. It is important to …

No single factor puts a child at risk of being bullied or bullying others. Bullying can happen anywhere—cities, suburbs, or rural towns. Depending on the environment, some groups—such as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or questioning (LGBTQ) youth, youth with disabilities, and socially isolated youth—may be at an increased risk of being bullied. Stigma can …

Children and teenagers who feel secure and supported by their family, school, and peers are less likely to bully. However, some youth do not have these types of support. Every individual is unique and there are many factors that can contribute to bullying behavior. A youth who bullies may experience …

There are many roles that kids can play. Kids can bully others, they can be bullied, or they may witness bullying. When kids are involved in bullying, they often play more than one role. Sometimes kids may both be bullied and bully others or they may witness other kids being …

Bullying is unwanted, aggressive behavior among school aged children that involves a real or perceived power imbalance. The behavior is repeated, or has the potential to be repeated, over time. Both kids who are bullied and who bully others may have serious, lasting problems. In order to be considered bullying, …

  James Why I Quit I got divorced about 15 years ago and started smoking. It felt good to go out to the bar and blow off steam. Soon I was up to a pack a day. My friend asked me if I would ever consider quitting. At first, I …

Talk to Your Friends and Family People who get support from family and friends have an easier time stopping smoking and staying smokefree. Sources of support for you could be: Your spouse or significant other Your children or grandchildren Other close family members Friends Co-workers Friends who are former smokers …

Symptoms of Depression Common signs of depression include: An “empty” feeling, ongoing sadness, and anxiety Tiredness, lack of energy Loss of interest or pleasure in everyday activities Sleep problems, including trouble getting to sleep, very early morning waking, and sleeping too much Eating more or less than usual Crying too …

Health Benefits of Exercising No matter how old you are, regular physical activity can help you look younger and stay more fit than people who aren’t active. Regular exercise can also be good medicine in your fight to stay off cigarettes. You will sleep better, be less likely to gain …

Weight Gain There are many reasons why people gain weight when they quit. Here are some of the reasons: Smoking lowers your appetite. Smoking increases your metabolism. Eating can be a substitute for smoking. Eating may soothe the feelings that smoking used to soothe. The good news is that you …

Stay Positive Negative thinking can lower your confidence and get in your way. You should be on guard against four common situations where you are vulnerable to negative thinking. Dealing with a crisis. Smoking will not help you deal with a crisis or feel better. Cigarettes are not a solution to …

If your loved one isn’t ready to quit, that’s okay. Your loved one needs to make his or her own decision about quitting. Share the information on the Not Yet Ready to Quit page with your loved one and let him or her know you will support them. If your loved …

What is nicotine? Nicotine is an addictive, fast-acting drug found in cigarettes. It affects your heart rate, blood pressure, brain chemistry, and mood. When you stop smoking, you experience cravings because your body is used to having a certain amount of nicotine each day. Is nicotine really that addictive? Yes. …

You Can Recover from a Slip If you do go back to smoking, you are not a failure. Don’t toss aside your attempt as worthless. Use it to try and succeed. Think of your quit attempt as a learning experience, and if you do slip, try again. Here are a few …

What is withdrawal? Sometimes people who at first quit successfully will give in and smoke within a week or two—because of withdrawal and cravings that are too intense to resist. Remember, withdrawal and intense cravings to smoke will go away! To keep the upper hand, know what to expect and …

Reasons Preventing You From Quitting The reasons that prevent smokers from quitting are often similar. Are any of these worries standing in your way? Smoking relaxes me. Why are you tense to start with? Is it because you are low on nicotine? A lot of what you think is relaxation is …

Medications can make it easier to quit smoking by reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Many former smokers find that using these medications for a couple of months helped them quit. But they are just one type of tool, not a magic bullet. Follow instructions carefully to get the most benefit. What medications and …

There are so many great reasons to stop smoking. Think about the ways smoking affects you and your loved ones, and discover the benefits of quitting. Remind yourself of these reasons when you need some extra motivation.

Use these quizzes to find out how strong your nicotine addiction is or if you have signs of depression. Knowing this information can help you find the support and tools you need to quit successfully and take care of yourself.

Why should you quit now? The cost of smoking adds up quickly. If you smoke a pack a day, you’re spending at least $45 per week. Check out our savings calculator to find out how much you could save if you quit today. These amounts are based on a 2018 national average …

Call a Smoking Quitline Quitlines are free, anonymous telephone counseling services. These programs have helped more than 3 million smokers. When you call a quitline, you talk to a trained counselor. Together, you can make a strategy for quitting, or you can ask for tips to help you stay on track. …

Sadness is a common emotion that can be triggered by ordinary life circumstances like disappointments, challenges, or loss. Everyone has down days and times when they feel sad. If feelings of sadness are extreme, last for a long time, or interfere with your daily activities and/or relationships, you may be …

Stress and Anxiety Stress is a normal part of life—everyday worries, responsibilities, and hassles all contribute to your overall stress level. Too much stress can make you feel overwhelmed and affect your mood. If you automatically reach for your vape when you are stressed out try creating a personalized quit …

Nicotine Addiction Nicotine is in most vapes, including JUUL. Nicotine is very addictive. The more you vape, the more your brain and body get used to having nicotine, and the harder it is to go without it. When you go without vaping, the nicotine level in your bloodstream drops, which …

Know Your Triggers When you first started vaping, it probably wasn’t a big part of your life. But over time, you’ve built up patterns and routines around vaping. When you quit vaping, it may seem like reminders of vaping are all around you. These reminders can make it hard to …

Tips for Cravings Try these ideas for managing your urges to vape. Some may work better than others, so find the ones that work for you. Do something else. When a craving hits, stop what you’re doing and do something different. Sometimes, just changing your routine helps you shake off …

1. Do Not Vape On your quit day, the most important thing is that you don’t vape—not even one hit. Having a plan for how you will deal with triggers and urges to vape can make your quit day easier. Take it one day at a time. Focus on getting …

Quitting vaping can be easier when you have a plan. Find out what steps you can take to get ready to quit vaping. Know Why You’re Quitting There are many good reasons to stop vaping. Do you want to feel healthier? Save money? Knowing why you want to quit vaping …

When is your quit date?

Cigarettes and Friends Most teens who smoke usually have friends who smoke. If you want to quit and your friends don’t, it could change some of your relationships. Being ready for those changes—some good, some bad—can help you when you stop using tobacco. Smoking doesn’t define you. Your friends enjoy …

Squash Stress Different things can make teens feel stressed out. Maybe it’s classes, activities, social situations, or not knowing your plans after high school or college. Maybe your job takes time away from school and sports. Or it’s pressure from parents, teachers, and coaches to do well. Using tobacco isn’t …

 “I only smoke when I go out.” “I only smoke a little.” “Sometimes I go for days between cigarettes, so I’m not addicted.” “I just bum cigarettes from friends now and then.” Sound familiar? You may think your tobacco use is no big deal, but if you smoke—even just a …

The truth is, whether it’s smoked, dipped, or rolled, any form of tobacco is harmful. All tobacco products contain nicotine, which is addictive and can harm your developing brain. And all tobacco products have serious health consequences. Learn more about the risks of using tobacco products. Cigarettes Cigarettes typically consist …

What Is Nicotine? Nicotine is the chemical found in tobacco products that is responsible for addiction. When you use tobacco, nicotine is quickly absorbed into your body and goes directly to your brain. Nicotine activates areas of the brain that make you feel satisfied and happy. Whether you smoke, vape, …

The quitSTART app helps you: Create your own Quit Kit with customized tips and materials. The more information you add about your smoking habits, the better the app can personalize content to fit your needs. Check your progress and earn badges for smokefree milestones and other achievements. Get back on …

Free Tools to Help You Quit Text Message Programs Smokefree Teen has free text message programs that give you 24/7 tips, advice, and encouragement to help you become—and stay—tobacco free. These programs look just like a text conversation you’d have with a friend. Try SmokefreeTXT to quit smoking. Try DipfreeTXT to quit …

When you stop smoking, you may find yourself thinking a lot about smoking or feeling strong urges to smoke. But these uncomfortable feelings are temporary. And if you know your triggers, have strategies to fight cravings and stick to your plan, you can succeed. Prepare for the tough moments with …

Concerns about gaining weight after quitting smoking can be powerful. Exercise can help you manage your weight, and get through cravings. A nutritious diet and portion control can help you keep your energy levels up without overeating. Learn more about how to be active, make healthy food choices, and maintain …

Some smokers use cigarettes to deal with stress, anxiety, or depression, but tobacco can actually make these things worse. And when you quit, bad moods can be a symptom of withdrawal and powerful smoking triggers. Learn to cope with bad moods and stress without turning to smoking.

You also can connect with others and grow your support network through Smokefree’s social media resources: Facebook ─ SmokefreeUS and Smokefree Women Twitter ─ SmokefreeUS Instagram ─ SmokefreeUS Pinterest ─ SmokefreeUS  Give your social circle a boost by connecting with other people who share your interests. Think about the things …

Telling the people in your life about your choice to quit smoking and asking them for help can make a big difference. It’s likely that people will be supportive and positive when you tell them you are quitting smoking. But, you may come across others who don’t understand or who …

Relationships are common reasons why people start or continue to smoke. Maybe you grew up around smokers and it seemed natural for you to smoke, too. Maybe your partner smokes and it’s a way that you spend time together. The important people in your life can also be a key …

A smokefree home is good for you and your child. Learn about the harmful effects of secondhand smoke and get tips on how to manage the stresses of being a mom. Becoming and staying smokefree can help give your child a healthier and happier future.

Smoking during pregnancy is harmful to you and your baby. Quitting at any time during your pregnancy—especially in the early stages—is one of the best things you can do for your baby’s health. Get the facts about smoking and pregnancy and learn how to become, and stay, smokefree for you …

Quitting is a challenge. But, knowing what to expect and preparing for the challenges you might face can help you reach your goals. Get tips on beating cravings, managing your weight, and getting back on track after a slip to increase your chances of quitting for good.

There isn’t one right way to quit, but there are things you can do to increase your chances of staying smokefree. Preparation, nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), and prescription medications can all help you during your quit journey. Learn more about your options and how they can boost your chances of …

Quitting smoking isn’t one size fits all, and it can be a different experience for women than it is for men. Learn about the unique challenges women face, the different ways to quit, and get tips on how to prepare for your quit day. Knowing what to expect can help …

Get 24/7 support on your smartphone with one of our Smokefree apps. These free apps offer personalized help based on your smoking patterns, moods, motivations, and goals. Tag locations and times of day that trigger cravings, keep track of changes in your mood, and receive tips and inspiration that fit …

You don’t have to quit alone. Our free text messaging programs offer 24/7 encouragement, advice, and tips to help you stay motivated and quit smoking for good. We offer a variety of programs so that you can explore your options and find the program that’s right for you.

Smoking cigarettes is expensive. Use our calculator to find out how much of your money is going up in smoke. For reference, the average price of a pack of cigarettes is $6.28 in the United States.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Dealing with PTSD is hard. But did you know that smoking actually makes PTSD symptoms worse? It also makes recovery harder. Think about the goals of your PTSD treatment. How does smoking keep you from reaching those goals? You can use the same skills to manage …

Physical Health Overall Health and Life Span When you quit smoking, your body will begin to heal. After just 20 minutes, your heart rate drops. Twelve hours after quitting, the carbon monoxide level in your blood drops to normal. When you quit smoking, you add years back to your expected …

Physical Health Overall Health and Life Span Smokers take more sick days. They also have higher health care costs. Insurers can charge tobacco users up to 50% more than people who don’t use tobacco. Smoking can cut at least 10 years off your expected lifespan. Smoking is the leading cause …

Do you want to be healthier? Save money? Keep your family safe? Reduce your stress and anxiety? All of those reasons? If you’re not sure, you can ask yourself these questions: What do I dislike about smoking? What do I miss out on when I smoke? How is smoking affecting …

This quiz can help you identify your triggers for using tobacco. Knowing your triggers will help you plan for cravings you might have. At the end, you’ll get tips to help deal with them. Choose the answer that best describes how you use tobacco.

Addiction Nicotine is the main addictive substance in cigarettes and other forms of tobacco. Nicotine is a drug that affects many parts of your body, including your brain. Over time, your body and brain get used to having nicotine in them. About 80–90% of people who smoke regularly are addicted …

Pick a Quit Date Every day is a good day to stop chewing tobacco or dipping. Try to pick a date within the next two weeks so you can prepare. A time with low stress works well for many people. Understand Nicotine Withdrawal After you quit, you may feel uncomfortable …

What Is Smokeless Tobacco? Smokeless tobacco is tobacco that isn’t burned or inhaled by the user. It’s also known as chewing tobacco, chew, dipping tobacco, dip, oral tobacco, spit, spitting tobacco, and snuff. Most people chew or suck (dip) the tobacco in their mouth and spit out the tobacco juices …

“I don’t think I can live without cigarettes. What can I do?” It’s common for people to think they can’t function without smoking. And it’s also normal to be worried about or afraid of quitting. Many people view smoking as a central part of their lives—so quitting can seem overwhelming. …

Have you gone one day, one week, or one month without tobacco? How about longer? Here are some ways you can celebrate. Celebrate Your Health Smoking harms nearly every organ of the body. It can affect things from thinking clearly to working out. Now that you’ve quit, your body may …

Family & Friends You might like to solve problems on your own, but everyone can use a little help from time to time. It doesn’t mean you’re weak. If you’re not sure how to ask, text a friend or send an email. You might say, “I want to quit smoking. …

Withdrawal Nicotine in tobacco is addictive. When you quit, the level of nicotine drops in your body. Because of addiction, your body wants more nicotine. Withdrawal is the way your body reacts to not having the nicotine it’s gotten used to. Withdrawal feels different for every smoker. Symptoms Intense cravings …

There are many types of medications you can use to help you quit smoking. VA offers veterans all FDA-approved quit smoking medications. If you don’t receive health care from VA, check your insurance plan to learn if quit smoking medications are covered. Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) NRT is the most …

Please distribute these materials among providers working in Primary Care, Mental Health, Dentistry, and Pharmacy, as well as other providers working in specialty clinics at VA Medical Centers and Outpatient Clinics. These materials may also be used by community providers who see Veteran patients from VA. The patient-focused materials can …

It’s a tough transition to go from being deployed to being back at home. It’s also tough to go from being a smoker to quitting for good. VA, Smokefree, and NCI are trusted sources for information about tobacco and how to quit smoking. Take advantage of these resources designed for …

Getting support is an important part of quitting. Talk or chat online with a trained quit smoking counselor to ask questions and get information to help you quit. Reach out to your friends and family about how they can support you during your quit.

Quitting can be easier when you’re taking care of your physical, mental, and emotional health. Get tips on starting an exercise routine, making healthier food choices, staying smokefree away from home, and recognizing the signs of depression.

It’s never too late to quit. Before your quit day, think about why you want to quit and prepare for the challenges you might face, like withdrawal and cravings. And take some time to make a quit plan that will help you identify tips, strategies, and support resources to help …

There are ways to make quitting easier. Learn about different quitting resources and how to use them—like a tool to build your own quit plan or information on quit smoking medications. Try a smartphone app or text message program that provides on-demand 24/7 help. Keep trying different tools until you …

Has coronavirus got you thinking that it might be time to stop vaping? Quitting can be tough, but you are tougher. Use our info and resources to quit vaping and stay vape-free.

There are many reasons why teens smoke or use other types of tobacco. You may smoke to deal with stress, fit in, or because it seems like most people your age smoke. Understanding your reasons for using tobacco can help you identify your triggers and learn how to manage them …

Tobacco comes in many forms, and none of them are safe. Any amount of tobacco use can cause addiction and be harmful to your health. Understand the consequences of tobacco use and nicotine addiction, and learn why even smoking occasionally puts you at risk.

Your choice to use tobacco may prevent you from doing the things you want to do in the future. The sooner you quit, the better off you will be. Whether you are a light smoker, occasional smoker, social smoker, or frequent smoker, getting support can help you stay tobacco-free. Find …

Quitting smoking can have powerful effects on your mental and physical health. It can also be a chance to make healthy changes in other parts of your life. Find out how exercise and good nutrition can boost your mood, increase your energy, and prevent weight gain while quitting. Get tips …

Relationships are an important part of life, and they can play a role in quitting. Getting positive support from others can increase your chances of quitting for good. Even with a support system, there may be people in your life who don’t understand your choice to quit. You might also …

Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. But that doesn’t make quitting easy. Whether before, during, or after baby, we have the tools and support to help you quit and stay quit.

Women face unique challenges when quitting smoking, but knowing what to expect, planning ahead, and exploring ways to get support will help you quit for good. You have so much to gain by being a smokefree woman.

Quitting isn’t easy, but there are many resources available to help you become and stay smokefree. Learn about different quit smoking tools so you can decide which ones are right for you. Get 24/7 support with our apps and text messaging programs or connect with a counselor through a quitline …

People quit smoking for lots of reasons. What are yours? Check out common reasons people quit and use them to help you come up with your own reasons. When you know your reasons, you’ll be motivated to quit and stay quit. Learn how quitting will help improve your physical, mental, …

People use tobacco for different reasons. But one thing is the same—nicotine is addictive. Learn how smoking cigarettes affects you and those around you. And take a quiz to find out why you use tobacco.

Smokeless tobacco is addictive, and it’s tough to quit. Learn the facts about smokeless tobacco—like how it works, how it affects your health, and how much it costs. Ready to quit? Get tips to stay quit.

Quitting is hard. But you’re not in this alone. Making a quit plan and using medications can help you on your quit journey. Learn how to deal with withdrawal and cravings—and get tips and resources to help you quit for good.

Ready to quit? Start planning your quit day and get support to stay smokefree. Resources like text messaging programs and one-on-one calls with a quit counselor can help you stay quit.

Physical activity can help you quit smoking. Exercise is a great way to distract yourself from cravings and it can help you deal with the symptoms of withdrawal. Being active even 10 minutes a day can help boost your energy and mood. Exercise can also help you reach health goals …

After quitting, some people have an increased appetite or snack to keep their hands and mouth busy. Find out how a healthy diet can help you avoid weight gain and keep your energy levels up. Being smokefree means that foods will taste and smell better too! Eating healthy can also …

Fear of gaining weight is a common reason people give for not quitting smoking. Learn healthy ways to avoid weight gain and shed unwanted pounds. These weight management strategies can help you feel better while quitting smoking and let you take control of your health for the rest of your …

Slipping and having a cigarette or even going back to smoking for a little while is not failing. It is a normal part of the quitting process. Get back on track and remember your goal to quit for good and your reasons for quitting. Understanding and preparing for the challenges …

It’s common for smokers to have bigger appetites and slower metabolisms after quitting smoking. Sometimes this leads to overeating and weight gain—but it doesn’t have to. Understand what happens to your body after becoming nicotine-free and get tips for managing your weight after quitting.

Some smokers don’t feel like themselves when they quit smoking. Cravings and nicotine withdrawal can affect your mood and make you feel sad, irritable, or anxious. Prepare yourself for mood changes. Learn smokefree ways to cope with bad moods and how to recognize when a bad mood may be a …

Some people smoke to try to deal with stress. When they quit smoking, they may replace it with other unhealthy behaviors that do not address the source of stress and may even make stress worse. This can make quitting harder. Understand the connection between stress and smoking, and plan ahead to …

Cravings are a normal part of quitting, but they can be hard to deal with. Even if you’ve been smokefree for a while, certain triggers may cause cravings to come back. Understand your cravings and the triggers that cause them, then you can make a plan to get past them.

Nicotine withdrawal is challenging for most smokers. The good news is that the worst withdrawal symptoms usually last less than two weeks, but that time can be really tough. Know what to expect when going through nicotine withdrawal and get ideas for easing your symptoms.

There are many types of tobacco products. Learn how e-cigarettes, menthol cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, and other products are different. Find out why any product with nicotine can be addictive and bad for your health.

Everyone’s smokefree journey is different. Smokefree is here to help no matter where you are on the path to quitting smoking—whether you’re just getting started, working toward staying smokefree, or giving quitting another try. Choose the part of the journey that fits your needs.

There are so many great reasons to stop smoking. Understand the ways smoking affects you and your loved ones, and discover the benefits of quitting. Think about why you want to be smokefree and remind yourself of these reasons when you need some extra motivation.

Many smokers don’t know where to begin their quit journeys. There isn’t one right way to start, but getting prepared and knowing what to expect can make things easier. Learn how to prepare for your quit day.

Looking for more information or assistance? Connect to a trained quit smoking counselor via online chat or telephone quitline. We also have more free online resources and post tobacco cessation research studies that are looking for participants like you!

Smokefree.gov offers free text messaging programs that give 24/7 encouragement, advice, and tips for becoming smokefree and being healthier. Find the program that meets your needs. You can sign up or opt-out at any time.

Get 24/7 support with a Smokefree app for your smartphone. These free apps offer help just for you based on your smoking patterns, moods, motivation to quit, and quitting goals. Tag the locations and times of day when you need extra support. Available for iOS and Android phones.

There isn’t one right way to quit, but certain things can be extra helpful. For example, medication can double your chances of quitting for good. Learn more about your options, including nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) and prescription medications that can boost your chances of success during your quit journey.

Quitting smoking is hard, but your support can be an important part of a loved one’s smoking cessation experience. Not sure how to help? Want tips for being a more effective part of your quitter’s support system? Understand what smokers go through when they quit and how you can be …

Even after the strongest withdrawal symptoms are gone, staying smokefree can be hard. Slipping and having a cigarette may happen, but that doesn’t mean you have to start all over again. Get tips for dealing with slips and avoiding going back to smoking. Find out how exercise and healthy eating …

Many smokers struggle with withdrawal and cravings when they quit, but there are ways to deal with these temporary challenges. Learn more about cravings and slips, and get tips for coping with them. Even challenges like stress and weight gain can be managed if you are prepared.

Planning and support can help you quit for good. Before your quit day, take time to prepare for challenges. Make a plan for quitting. Know what to expect in the first days of being smokefree. Identify your reasons for quitting and plan how to ask for help if you need …

When it comes to quitting smoking, there are ways to make it easier. Find out how to handle the temporary feelings of withdrawal and cravings. Learn about different quitting tools and how to use them—like apps and texting programs that provide on-demand 24/7 help. Plan ahead and get tips to …

Medications can help you handle withdrawal and cravings, and double your chances of quitting for good.

A lot of people slip and smoke a cigarette when trying to quit. Don't get discouraged, you can get back on track.

Part of quitting is finding ways to cope without cigarettes. Try these better ways to deal with your emotions.

When you have a craving, it's important to have a plan to beat that urge to smoke.

Quitting smoking can help most of the major parts of your body: from your brain to your DNA.

Use the experiences, tips, and advice from former smokers to help you build your quit plan.

Some situations make staying smokefree hard. Use these tips to stay on track no matter what happens.

Understand what nicotine withdrawal feels like and get ideas for easing symptoms.

Understand why cigarettes and other tobacco products are addictive and harmful to your health.

What will you gain by quitting? Whether it’s feeling healthier or taking back control, there are many great reasons to quit.

Friends and social activities are a huge part of a teen’s social life and can have an impact on decisions teens make, like using tobacco. Learn how you can quit smoking and still be social.

Being a teen can be stressful. Tobacco use is not a healthy way to help you deal with stress and bad moods. Learn how to manage stress in a healthy way.

Tobacco and nicotine are found in more than just cigarettes. Learn more about different tobacco products and why there is no such thing as safe tobacco.

Teens who use tools to help them quit increase their chances of successfully quitting. Learn more about the free quitSTART app and text programs, and get tips to help you quit for good.

Quitting can be tough, even if you don’t smoke every day. Make a plan for quitting and learn how you can prepare for tough moments.

From the moment women quit smoking, their bodies start to heal. You’ll have both physical and emotional benefits when you become smokefree.

Becoming smokefree before or during pregnancy is important for your baby’s health. It’s also important for your health.

Women who smoke usually feel that being a smoker is an important part of their identity. Starting to think about your future as a smokefree woman is key to your success.

Fear of gaining weight keeps some women from quitting. Make quitting your priority and learn healthy ways to manage your weight.

Women can have unique challenges when it comes to quitting. Knowing what these challenges are can help you handle them and reach your goal.

See how tobacco can affect your health if you have PTSD, HIV, depression, or substance use disorders.

Knowing why you want to quit smoking can keep you motivated to stay smokefree. What are you reasons for being smokefree?

Medications can double your chances of quitting for good. Learn about the different options available.

It can be easy to lose sight of the benefits of quitting. Remind yourself of the rewards for staying on track.