Happy New Year! We wish you a happy, healthy, and prosperous 2024, and we’re here to help you along the way. It’s that time in January when those who made resolutions might be struggling, and those who didn’t make resolutions might be wondering if it’s too late to get on it.
But like the old saying goes, if you want to change a habit, there’s no time like the present. Let’s talk about two common resolutions that can be tough—but not impossible—to keep.
You Can Control Your Drinking
We’re in the midst of Dry January, when millions of people worldwide give up alcohol for one month. It can be a great way to kick-start a new year, and many people say they sleep better, have more energy, are more present for their friends and families when they aren’t drinking.
If you’re currently observing Dry January and struggling with it, a good way to stay on track is to get connected to people who support you. Call a friend, get involved in alcohol-free activities, and reward yourself for each day that you are doing something positive for yourself.
Another resource is the national nonprofit Sober Black Girls Club (soberblackgirlsclub.com), which Khadi A. Oluwatoyin founded when noticed that many pro-sober platforms did not cater to girls and women who looked like her or share similar cultural and societal experiences. Sober Black Girls Club offers resources, a newsletter, a mentorship program, weekly support meetings, and more.
Free Help to Quit Smoking
Quitting smoking is difficult, especially if you smoke menthol cigarettes, because menthol makes tobacco more addictive, according to the CDC. And it’s no secret that Big Tobacco companies have marketed menthol cigarettes to African Americans for decades.
Although it’s tough, you can quit smoking. The Wisconsin Tobacco Quit Line is offering free eight-week starter kits, instead of the usual two-week kits, which include nicotine patches, lozenges, or gum for eligible tobacco users. The offer is available for a limited time only. People can register for confidential Quit Line services 24/7 in any of three ways: call 800-QUIT-NOW (800-784-8669), text READY to 34191, or visit WIQuitLine.org.
