How to Help a Tobacco User Quit

It may not be easy for the person who quits or for people around them. But your support can make a big difference. Keep these things in mind:

 

• Quitting is a step-by-step process. Offer your help each step of the way.

• You cant make somebody do it, but you can help him or her.

• Telling someone they can do it will help — even when quitting gets hard.

How to help:

a. Offer lots of encouragement.

• Wait for them to say it's time to quit.

• Dont nag about quitting.

• Let the quitter know that youre proud of him or her —no matter how long it takes!

• Dont offer advice. Instead, ask how you can help.

b. Give them practical help.

• Help make a quit kit. Include gum, toothpicks, mints —anything they might use instead of tobacco. Add pictures of loved ones.

• Help them stay busy. It will ease the urge to use tobacco — a feeling that usually passes in five minutes or less.

• Make a list of things to do together, like taking walks, yard work, movies, going to the mall or smoke-free restaurants.

c. Let them know you understand.

• Have patience. It can be tough to learn new ways to do things without tobacco. Simple things, like taking a break or relaxing after a meal, can be hard.

• Dont be surprised if the quitter acts grumpy or nervous. This is a normal part of quitting. And dont take grouchy comments personally.

• Think of ways to make the first week less stressful. Help with chores or other things.

d. And finally…

• Keep offering help — even after they quit. An urge to smoke can happen many months after quitting. Listen well when they talk about it. Remind them how far he or she has come