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380AEW Article

Medics help Airmen, Soldiers stop smoking

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. J.G. Buzanowski
  • 380th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
SOUTHWEST ASIA --  "Quitting smoking isn't easy."

Dr. (Maj.) Samantha Timm said she's very much aware of this. So the first thing she says to people who come for help to break the habit is one word:

"Congratulations."

Timm is the chief of the 380th Expeditionary Medical Group's mental health clinic. The Spencer, Wis., native is deployed from Malmstrom Air Force Base, Mont., on her first deployment. For her, health comes down to three things - body, mind and spirit.

"Smoking has a big impact on your ability to perform your duties," she said. "It impairs your physical fitness, affects lung capacity and puts you at risk for long-term diseases. Also we've seen people who smoke actually suffer from higher levels of stress. So the sooner someone can quit the better."

Timm has several options at her disposal to help anyone interested in quitting smoking. In addition to medications, patches and gum, she also prescribes "alternatives to the habit."

"I help people find other relaxation techniques, and often suggest exercise as well as finding social support," Timm said. "But the best thing we can do for someone is to work together and find ways they can be successful. We have resources available; they just have to come see us."

Timm said roughly half of the people who come in to ask about quitting are able to do so.

"We help anyone who can come in, but that first step is the most important," she said.

The mental health clinic is located on the second floor of the medial group building. They can often see people the same day for one-on-one smoking cessation counseling, but can also make appointments.

For more information, call 434-2720.