Social smoking is characterized as a pattern of tobacco use in social settings, according to the Curry Health Center at the University of Montana. Social smokers tend to smoke only with other people and, typically, with drink in hand. The setting, coupled with alcohol consumption, triggers the desire to smoke in these individuals. And though most people who identify themselves as social smokers don't consider themselves addicted to tobacco, it's still a habit, which means it can be curbed and treated.
Step 1
Recognize the habitual nature of tobacco use. If you don't consider it a problem, then there's no reason to quit social smoking.
Step 2
Skip drinking. By abstaining from alcohol in social settings, you can often eliminate the association between cigarettes and drinking. After some time, you can have a drink without craving a cigarette.
Step 3
Keep your hands busy. Like regular smokers, you can fill the tactile void of a cigarette by keeping your hands busy in a social setting. Hold pens, pencils or even car keys when you'd normally smoke a cigarette.
Step 4
Steer clear of settings that normally trigger cravings. Bars, clubs, parties and other social environments can trigger the craving to smoke for a social smoker. Don't put yourself in those locations while you are trying to quit.
Step 5
Use your willpower. Though there's still debate on whether social smokers are addicted to nicotine or the mere act of smoking, you may be able to quit by sheer willpower. When you feel the urge to smoke, resist. The craving will probably pass faster than that of a more-regular smoker.
Step 6
Enlist support. If you're a social smoker, you no doubt have friends who socially smoke as well. Get them to quit with you, which will make it much easier for you to avoid the urge to smoke.
Step 7
Talk to your doctor. If you're still unable to quit, you may have more of an addiction than you think. Medical professionals can offer alternative ways to help you quit smoking.
References
- Curry Health Center at the University of Montana: What is Social Smoking?
- CNNHealth: Social Smokers Aren't Hooked on Nicotine, Just Smoking
- MayoClinic.com: Proven Strategies to Help You Quit
- American Cancer Society: Guide to Quit Smoking
- National Cancer Institute, Tobacco Control Research Branch: Steps to Take on Your Quit Day
