We do not provide coffee or caffeine tea on the Cancer Help Program except by special arrangement. We strongly encourage people who currently drink coffee or caffeine tea regularly to withdraw from caffeine at least ten days before coming to Commonweal. Research shows that caffeine withdrawal may be accompanied by headaches, drowsiness, fatigue, and occasionally, nausea. It has been our experience that participants undergoing caffeine withdrawal during the program have had difficulty experiencing the full benefits of the program as a result. If you feel you cannot withdraw from caffeine in advance of the program, you can discuss whether we can make an exception in your case with Program Coordinator, Waz Thomas.
Cigarette smoking is a particularly difficult addiction for people to overcome.
We do accept smokers in the Commonweal Cancer Help Program, and we do allow smokers to smoke outdoors during the program as needed. Many smokers find that their need for cigarettes is greatly reduced in the course of the week. Obviously, withdrawing from cigarette smoking before coming to Commonweal will bring added benefit to your experience of the program.