Stay Quit Coach

Functionality & Mechanism

Developed by the National Center for PTSD at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Stay Quit Coach 2 delivers tools for smoking cessation maintenance. The system is based on an integrated care manual for Veterans with PTSD and utilizes the "Ask, Advise, Replace, Mentally Cope" (AARM) model. The interface provides psychoeducation, a guided breathing exercise, customizable coping plans, medication reminders, and a financial impact calculator. These modules support individuals in transitioning from smoking cessation to sustained abstinence.

Evidence & Research Context

• A qualitative study (N=17) evaluated the acceptability and user experience of the app among U.S. military veterans with PTSD undergoing smoking cessation treatment.
• Participants reported moderately high comfort with mobile technology and endorsed the app as an appealing format for cessation support due to its convenience.
• Interactive features, such as customizable coping plans, were identified as the most helpful components for supporting cessation efforts within an integrated treatment context.
• The authors concluded that the app is an acceptable and useful adjunct tool for this high-risk clinical population, providing valuable insights for future refinement.

Intended Use & Scope

This application is designed as a self-management and adjunct therapy tool for individuals, particularly U.S. Veterans, maintaining smoking abstinence. Its primary utility is to augment evidence-based cessation treatment delivered by a healthcare provider. The system does not constitute a standalone clinical intervention and is not a substitute for professional medical or psychological care.