New smoking cessation book
offers individualized plan to kick the habit

While millions of smokers attempt to quit the habit every year, many succumb to the temptation and quickly pick it back up. But for those who are determined to quit this year, either for themselves or for a loved one, two North Chili residents have written a book to help smokers keep their resolution.

"Quit for Life: A Clinical Guide to Smoking Cessation," a new book written by Drs. Kathryn T. Vullo and Ronald P. Vullo, offers practical advice to help smokers kick the habit once and for all.

"The book addresses both the mental and emotional aspects of smoking," Dr. Kathryn Vullo said. "Helping people understand their own individual reasons for smoking will help them formulate a plan that best addresses their habits with an individualized plan."

It is the individualized nature of the Quit for Life guide that is one of the main differences between this book and a lot of other books and markets on the plan. Many aspects of Quit for Life cannot be found in other smoking cessation plans. For example, in addition to focusing on the physical and emotional dimensions of quitting, the authors focus as much on remaining a nonsmoker as on the initial days of quitting.

The guide, written in workbook style, has been developed from myriad smoking cessation classes and is structured to follow a six week course. "The book offers exercises to people to use throughout the week, gives them space to reflect on their choices and personal stressors," Vullo said. "With the workbook, individuals can write down how they coped with each situation. It will give them a guide to gauge their progress. It's a step-by-step, week-by-week intervention."

The book has a lighthearted yet straightforward approach which helps highlight the irrational thoughts many people have during this difficult time. Week by week, the book follows the reader through the process, whether they've chosen to quit "cold turkey" or with the aid of nicotine patches, gum or Zyban. With as little as 15 minutes of reading per week, smokers can stay on track with a flexible plan that is tailored to their individual needs.

"Quit for Life is an invaluable companion for the often miserable journey to a nonsmoking life and is the ultimate guide for achieving that goal," Vullo said.

The book retails for $16.95 and can be ordered directly through Dr. Vullo's website: www.interpersonalnet.com or through most on-line book retailers. Relaxation and smoking cessation hypnosis audio tapes are also available.

Vullo encourages individuals to visit the website and share their progress with her. "We would like to track the success of the workbook," she said.