There are many good reasons why you should try to get a loved one to stop smoking. According to the United States Department of Health & Human Services, smoking can cause 12 different types of cancer, including cancer of the lungs; it can also cause heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, complications with pregnancy, sudden infant death syndrome, lung abnormalities, gum disease and vision disorders. If you want to get a loved one to stop smoking, you must be as supportive as possible. Since the nicotine in cigarettes is addictive, smoking cessation can be challenging.
Step 1
Do not constantly try to get someone you love to stop smoking. If this person tells you he is contemplating quitting the habit, listen to what he has to say and talk to him about it. Tell your loved one you are ready to help him in any way you can if and when he decides to stop smoking.
Step 2
Help your loved one plan a quitting strategy. Give him a list of all the reasons he should not smoke. The cigarette habit is expensive, and maybe the money saved could go toward a special vacation or goal. Tell her she will live longer if she quits smoking, and she will be healthier. Let her know she will breathe better if she stops and her energy level will be higher. Explain that her food will taste better, and that she will lessen his risk of having a heart attack. Many women worry about the weight gain associated with smoking cessation. Ease your loved one’s worries about weight gain by telling her many people do not put on weight when they quit smoking, and those who do typically put on no more than 8 lbs.
Step 3
Make yourself available should your loved one get the urge to smoke. According to the December, 2007 publication of The Edmond Sun, the majority of cravings for a cigarette end after 15 minutes. Help take your loved one’s mind off smoking by using your imagination and thinking of things the two of you can do together while the craving is strong. Take a walk together or run an errand. Phone a friend or relative to tell them about the goal to stop smoking.
Step 4
Praise your loved one for all his efforts. Do not let him get discouraged if he gives in and has a cigarette. Tell him that according to the December, 2007 publication of the Edmond Sun, many smokers make between 8 and 11 attempts to quit smoking before they succeed. If your loved one finds the stress associated with quitting smoking is unbearable, suggest the two of you take a class on meditation.
