This time of year, many smokers make a resolution to quit and make healthier lifestyle choices, but quitting isn't easy. According to CDC's Office on Smoking and Health (OSH) it may take several tries before you're able to quit for good, but it can be done. In fact, so many people have quit that there are now more former smokers than current smokers in the United States. Despite the challenges, deciding to stop smoking is one of the most common, potentially beneficial and consistently tough resolutions. Resolutions fail for many reasons, often because they are not "focused, specific or organized," said Dr. Javaid Arrine, psychiatrist at McLaren Lapeer Region. "They need to be attainable and measurable on a daily basis." "Seek help as needed," Dr. Arrine suggests. "A smoker's brain gets used to nicotine and without it, people go through withdrawal symptoms which can vary from person to person." Everyone's journey to quit smoking is different, but you don't have to do it alone. McLaren Lapeer Region has an individual approach to smoking cessation. For more information, call Suzanne Wooley at (810) 667-5675.