Many communities have outpatient programs or phone lines designed to help people quit smoking. You may have even participated in one of these programs and still struggled to find success. Your Next Step is one of the few residential nicotine cessation programs in the world. The Your Next Step program has helped thousands of people just like you find recovery from nicotine addiction by using a holistic mind-body-spirit approach.

When should I plan to arrive at Hazelden?
Please plan to arrive by early afternoon on the Sunday prior to the program. The program staff will meet you at the Dan Anderson Renewal Center for introductions and to set up initial sessions for that afternoon and evening. Dinner is at 5:30 p.m. in the Renewal Center dining room. If you are unable to arrive in time for dinner, there will be sandwich ingredients and beverages available in the kitchenette area next to the Presentation Room. Breakfast will be in the same dining room at 8:00 a.m. Monday, followed by program orientation at 10:00 a.m.

When do I quit smoking?
Most tobacco users have tried quitting on their own in the past, but this new experience begins with a group process. We quit together on Monday morning; therefore, cutting down is not required prior to attending the program. After the official "quit time," smoking is no longer an option. Please bring enough cigarettes to last you until the designated time. Cigarettes are not available on the Hazelden campus and we will collect remaining cigarettes and other paraphernalia immediately after the "quit time."

Can I use Zyban or the patch?
If you wish to bring a prescription nicotine replacement system with you -- such as Zyban, Welbutrin or a nicotine patch -- please let the program facilitators know prior to the start of the program. We do have boundaries on the use of nicotine replacement systems and will explain this to you during the orientation. We do not provide prescription services. The Your Next Step program teaches alternatives to medical solutions, however, consultation with your physician is always recommended. A main focus of this program is to have you be nicotine-free and if you use a nicotine replacement system during the program you will leave still hooked and your ability to remain nicotine-free will be affected.

What should I wear? What can I bring?
All program activities take place at the Renewal Center. We make use of the recreational facilities in the Cork Center, as well as the beautiful walking trails on the Hazelden grounds. Dress casually and comfortably for the program. Plan to bring swimsuits and workout clothes for recreational activities. Feel free to bring personal past time items, such as needlepoint, a guitar, CD player, or a book, as well as anything else you might require for your comfort during the program. You may wish to bring a CD player to listen to relaxation music. Hazelden does not have an on-site pharmacy nor does our gift shop sell over-the-counter medications.

What is the program like?
You will attend lectures on various aspects of nicotine addiction and recovery, complete individual exercises based on the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous, and participate in peer support groups. Relaxation activities and gentle exercise options will be offered. You will have many opportunities to interact with staff and your peers. Each participant completes a continuing care plan with assistance from the program staff and peers. Acupuncture, massage therapy and yoga are available to help ease withdrawal symptoms.

Will I need spending money?
Yes, you should plan on bringing some spending money to the program. During your stay there will be a special trip to Taylors Falls, a beautiful town along the St. Croix River. Each participant will receive a half-hour seated-chair massage as part of the registration fee (additional sessions can be arranged). The Hazelden gift shop sells cards, books, novelties and necessities such as shampoo if you forget something.

When does the program end?
The program ends on Sunday morning. You will graduate from the program and receive a medallion as a remembrance of your participation. You will also leave the program armed with new skills, a continuing care plan, and educational materials you can use at home.

Can I stay longer/less than seven days?
Some of our participants ask to stay at Hazelden longer in order to work on their recovery. You can make reservations for additional days while you are here. If you stay at the Renewal Center, you would have access to the lectures, both at Renewal and at the Bigelow auditorium, as well as to Renewal Center professional staff. If this is an option you may be interested in, call 800-257-7810, ext. 4104, in advance to be sure of space availability. Your Next Step is designed as a 7-day program and we ask your commitment to stay the entire seven days. Please call with any questions or concerns regarding length of stay.