Freedom From Smoking

Douglas County Freedom From Smoking Program

What is the FFS Program?

The Freedom From Smoking Program is a tested curriculum created by the American Lung Association. The eight week course is a tobacco cessation program designed to target all of the aspects of smoking and to evaluate individual paths to make this cessation attempt the last one.

Who teaches the course?

Kim Hunter, Health Educator, is also a certified FFS Facilitator. She has gone through the ALA curriculum and has had experience guiding participants through the program.

Why is the FFS Program preferred by the Health Department?

The FFS Program is not only a nationally recognized program, but it contains many components that are often effective. The program targets both the nicotine addiction as well as the physical and emotional attachment to the cigarette itself. The program recognizes the life long “love affair” that many people have with cigarettes and looks at alternative ways of coping with trigger situations to minimize the dependence on tobacco.

When are FFS classes held?

Cessation classes are held at least quarterly, although may be scheduled based on demand.

How many interested parties do I need to host a class?

Usually, the best classes have between 8 and 10 participants. However, based on interest and need, the number is negotiable.

Where can we hold a class?

FFS classes are ideal for many situations. Work-site classes can be very effective because of the variety of options and participants. Other organizations can also provide a great base for a class comprised predominantly of members. Also, several groups of people can combine to request a class. Open classes are held quarterly.

I heard I can get free nicotine patches. Is that true?

Because the FFS program operates partially from a grant through the Illinois Tobacco-Free Communities, money IS available to provide nicotine quit-aids, such as patches or gum. This is dependent on availability of funds. Contact Lana Sandstrom, 217-253-4137 for the most current information.

How much does the class cost?

There is no fee!!

How do I sign up?

Contact Lana Sandstrom, Health Educator at 217-253-4137 for details on the next FFS class near you or to schedule a class for your worksite!

Are there other cessation options?

While the FFS course is really an ideal choice, there are other options for participants who do not have the time to devote to such a class. The FFS Online option is a similar course that can be completed via the internet. For more information, visit The American Cancer Society website.

There are LIMITED possibilities for a pilot program that is offered. The Freedom from Smoking One-on-One option is set up similarly to the regular course but does not have a group component. This is a program based on need only. If you feel that the Freedom from Smoking One-on-One option is the ONLY option for you, please contact DCHD to discuss setting up an appointment for evaluation.

There is also another tool that can help with or without the benefit of the FFS Program. The Illinois Tobacco Quitline has had a lot of success using a bank of trained counselors to help you quit. For more information visit www.idph.state.il.us/TobaccoWebSite/quitsmoking.htm or call 1-866-QUIT-YES.