Tobacco addiction is as much a sociological problem as it is clinical. There are three parts to a smoking addiction: the addiction to the chemical- nicotine, force of habit and the emotional connection with smoking. It takes up to 12 weeks of abstinence before a former smoker’s brain receptor levels for nicotine will match those of nonsmokers.
We identified that a successful tool to help people to quit smoking needed to address all three parts of the addiction as well as keeping people motivated throughout the 12-week timeframe.
Goalpost uses the power of social networks, game mechanics and medical research to help people become smoke-free. It is a 12-week ‘game’ with challenges and support along the way, helping users to stay motivated throughout the quit process.
The user is kept on track throughout the course with tips, tasks, challenges and rewards, encouraging self-efficacy and breaking old habits and emotional dependencies.
Once you’ve made it through the 12-week programme you are encouraged to share your success with your wider community & become a supporter for those who are still on their smoke-free journey.
Since its beta launch in July 2012, 7000 users have utilized Goalpost and achieved a quit rate of 23% (as at 28 February 2014).
The current average quit rates for the North American Quit Consortium is 4% and Quitline New Zealand is 12%.
