Northampton launches free support group for people quitting nicotine
The support group runs Tuesday evenings from mid-September through October at the Lilly Library Community Room in Florence.
NORTHAMPTON — The Department of Health and Human Services will host a free six-week support group called "Kicking Nicotine" for people interested in quitting tobacco or nicotine products. The group meets every Tuesday from 6 to 7 p.m., from Sept. 15 to Oct. 20 at the Lilly Library Community Room in Florence.
The program reflects the city's broader effort to reduce nicotine use following its adoption of a Nicotine-Free Generation policy this summer, which bans the sale of tobacco and nicotine products to anyone born on or after July 1, 2005. Health Commissioner Merridith O'Leary said the support group complements that prevention work by serving people already using nicotine who want to quit.
The program is designed for people considering quitting, actively working toward it, or maintaining progress they have already made. Over six weeks, participants explore their nicotine use patterns, identify triggers, learn evidence-based cessation approaches, and receive support and encouragement from others in the group. Sandra Mandel, MSW, a former smoker who received specialized training through Rutgers, UMass Medical School's Center for Tobacco Treatment Research and Training, and the American Lung Association, will facilitate the group.
O'Leary said the group setting provides accountability and practical tools. "The group setting is particularly valuable because participants realize they are not doing this alone," she said. "They can share experiences, learn from one another, celebrate progress and receive encouragement when they encounter challenges or setbacks."
The program also provides information about cessation options, including nicotine replacement therapies, to help participants decide which approach works best for them. O'Leary emphasized that the program makes no judgments and welcomes people at any stage of readiness to quit.
Registration is required and the program is free and open to the public. O'Leary said DHHS plans to look for opportunities to expand similar community-based health resources in response to resident feedback about wanting accessible, practical programs.