Once they get addicted, most smokers make a strong effort to stop a number of times over the years. But most who quit fail and fail, and then fail again.

Reality check: there is no product which works well. 85 out of 100 smokers using the patch, gum or most other programs begin smoking again within under a year. Once you get hooked, there is just no easy way out.

Yet with no program at all, 95 out of 100 smokers go back to the habit again within a year. The lesson is clear. With no program, statistically you only have a 5% chance. With nicotine replacement, for example, the average quitter's chances increase to 15%.

So even though success is unlikely for most, getting help -- getting into a program increases your chances of quitting successfully by three times.

Not trying at all, of course, means that nothing will change.

So if you are smoking now or using dip, I urge you to first admit to yourself that maybe you aren't smoking so much out of choice, but also because you are addicted. And when you make a clear and firm decision to stop it, getting support from a good program will ease and light your way. In short, get help!

In fact, people who are the most successful at living life typically get plenty of help. For example, in business, a successful businesswoman or businessman gets a lawyer to write the contracts, an advertising agency to create the ads, a marketing executive to do the marketing, an accountant to do the accounting, a doctor when they're sick — people who succeed get help, and lots of it. Even the greatest novelists have editors who give them crucial feedback.

So don't be afraid to get help. If you are smoking now, or experimenting with tobacco, see the school nurse — or talk to an adult. Connecting with others is a big theme today. It's okay to talk to someone and get help.

And if you haven't started yet, remember — tobacco is extremely addicting. You can get hooked much, much faster than you think.

The best way to avoid getting addicted is simply to not smoke — no matter what.