Wiht nearly a quarter of the population struggling with daily smoking, health officials are emphasizing that even small steps toward cessation can have a significant impact. The Austrian Health Insurance Fund (ÖGK) is offering support through readily available resources, including a free smoke-free phone line and accessible courses, to help individuals break free from nicotine dependence.Experts suggest starting with a single smoke-free day and identifying personal triggers as key components of a prosperous quit attempt.
Nearly a quarter of the population smokes daily, and for those struggling to quit completely, taking a break can be a good first step, according to health psychologist Melanie Stuhlik of the Austrian Health Insurance Fund (ÖGK). “The most important thing is to start,” she says.
Smoke-Free Phone Line
Table of Contents
- Smoke-Free Phone Line
- Nicotine-Free Courses
- Tracking Smoking Habits Builds Awareness
- Nicotine Pouches Pose a Problem for Young People
- Counseling is Economically Sensible
- Stress Ball, Sour Drinks, and Motivational Phrases
- Adjustment Takes About Three Months
- Health Psychologist: Tips for Quitting Smoking
- “You Have Nothing to Lose”
The ÖGK’s smoke-free phone line is available free of charge from Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, at 0800 810 013
Nicotine-Free Courses
The ÖGK continuously offers free courses, such as “Nicotine-Free in 6 Weeks,” both online and in person. The next courses in Lower Austria will be held in Wiener Neustadt and St. Pölten.
A manageable initial goal could be committing to just one smoke-free day. “Spend 24 hours without cigarettes or nicotine pouches, and prepare for that day – perhaps by doing something you already enjoy that reduces cravings,” Stuhlik suggests.
Tracking Smoking Habits Builds Awareness
It’s crucial to identify the situations where you most often reach for a cigarette – perhaps by keeping a smoking diary – and then try to find alternatives. However, switching to e-cigarettes isn’t the answer, as it perpetuates the addiction and carries its own health risks.
“The problem with vaping is that the vapor penetrates deep into the lungs, and the aromas or liquids added to it are not designed to be inhaled,” Stuhlik explained. This can lead to long-term problems with the respiratory system. “Many of our clients report experiencing illnesses as a result.”
Nicotine Pouches Pose a Problem for Young People
Nicotine pouches, placed under the lip, are currently trending among young people. “The issue is that nicotine floods the system very quickly, and certain salts are added that intensify nicotine dependence,” Stuhlik warned. This can even cause poisoning, nausea, and vomiting.
Many young people are seeking guidance because they find they “need it to get going, they simply can’t manage school or their apprenticeship without these things, and they realize they need support to stop,” Stuhlik said. The rising rates of nicotine addiction among youth are prompting increased public health concern globally.
Counseling is Economically Sensible
Support is available through free courses offered by the ÖGK or via the smoke-free phone line (see information box). Such counseling services are not only beneficial from a health perspective but also economically sound and cost-effective compared to medication for smoking cessation – a recent study by the University of Continuing Education Krems demonstrated. More information can be found in Medication-Free Smoking Cessation Saves Costs (noe.ORF.at; November 15, 2025).
The most effective approach involves a combination of various non-pharmacological methods, according to study leader Alexander Braun: “Personal counseling is incredibly valuable in showing people how to suppress these habits and cope with them. This might involve a one-hour conversation. Afterwards, smokers return to their daily lives and may reach for a cigarette in a stressful situation.” Therefore, it’s advisable to then utilize a digital tool, such as an app.
Stress Ball, Sour Drinks, and Motivational Phrases
Ways to distract yourself from cravings include squeezing a stress ball, drinking a sour beverage, or using certain scents. Positive affirmations can reinforce your commitment to succeed.
Smoking breaks often have a social component, particularly at work. Stuhlik advises still taking that break, but replacing the cigarette with a bottle of water or something similar to share with colleagues.
Adjustment Takes About Three Months
The length of time it takes to adjust to new behaviors and for cravings to subside varies from person to person. However, as a general guideline, Stuhlik refers to the “rule of three”: “The first three days are for withdrawal, until the nicotine is out of your system. The first three weeks are about restructuring your daily routine, and after about three months, you may experience a brief resurgence of cravings – these are critical moments.”
The smoke-free phone line typically provides the most intensive support during this period. “However, the line remains available if you need it afterwards.”
Health Psychologist: Tips for Quitting Smoking
Health psychologist Melanie Stulik offered tips on how to successfully quit smoking permanently.
You’ll typically begin to experience positive health effects within days and weeks: blood pressure decreases, oxygen levels increase, and your sense of smell and taste return.
“You Have Nothing to Lose”
If you do slip up, the health psychologist advises: “Dust yourself off and keep going. You have nothing to lose, and every smoke-free period is a win for your body and your overall well-being.”
