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Kicking the Habit and Feeling Like a Million Bucks

Veteran and VA provider
VA psychologist Dr. Zina Peters (right) gives a high five to Navy Veteran Frederick Hamilton.

By Maureen Dyman, Communications Director

Navy Veteran Frederick Hamilton has always been in great shape but these days he has a new pep in his step.

After years of relying on cigars and smokeless tobacco, Hamilton, who served in the 1980s, decided to quit tobacco. After being tobacco free for eight months, he says he now feels “ like a million bucks.” 

Hamilton's relationship with tobacco began during his time in the Navy, where he found comfort in chewing tobacco while on watch in the Indian Ocean. It was a habit that ran deep in his family; his grandfather chewed tobacco, and his father smoked. For years, Hamilton knew the risks associated with his habit but wasn’t’ able to quit. 

“I always knew tobacco was bad for me,” he said. It took a pivotal moment—a group session at the Houston VA—to ignite his determination to quit. 

Joining a tobacco cessation support group led by VA psychologist Dr. Zina Peters was a game-changer for Hamilton. Sitting in a session with other Veterans, each sharing their own struggles and victories, he found a camaraderie he hadn’t anticipated. 

“Hearing their stories made me realize I wasn’t alone,” he said. The competitive spirit that had served him well in the Navy kicked in, fueling his resolve to quit tobacco altogether. “I stopped making excuses and committed to change," he added.   

Quitting cold turkey was no easy feat. Hamilton acknowledges that there were and still are good days and bad days, but the support from his fellow Veterans and the tools he learned from Dr. Peters made all the difference.

 “The VA meetings really helped…they hold me accountable,” he said. Over the past few months, he has noticed significant improvements in his health—his gums are healthier, and he feels more energetic. 

According to Dr. Peters, many Veterans have been in a long-term relationship with smoking for years, often gaining nothing but poor health in return.  Veterans are often more than ready to quit but just need a little support. 

 “We empower Veterans to take back control of their lives,” she explains, highlighting the importance of education in the cessation process. The group not only provides tools for quitting but also fosters a sense of belonging among Veterans who often feel isolated in their struggles. 

For Hamilton, quitting tobacco  has been life changing. He now actively seeks out situations that test his resolve, using time management techniques to stay focused and avoid triggers. As he looks to the future, he hopes to inspire other Veterans to follow in his footsteps. “If I can do it, anyone can,” he said.  

The VA’s tobacco cessation program is open to all Veterans, and Hamilton urges them to consult their primary care providers to explore this life-altering opportunity. 

“It’s never too late to take back control and embrace a healthier life,” he said.   

If you are a Veteran thinking about quitting, the Houston VA can help. Join the weekly virtual drop-in Tobacco Treatment Group on Thursdays at 1:00PM.  The weekly group educates Veterans on the impact of tobacco use, the benefits of quitting,  provides coping strategies and resources to support Veteran’s on their quit journey. 

Veterans may join the weekly Tobacco Treatment group by video and telephone conference.