If your partner has made a committed decision to quit smoking, the most important step he can take toward a healthier body and a healthier relationship with you. However, keep in mind that nicotine is a highly-addictive substance; for many smokers, remaining smoke-free entails breaking old patterns of behavior and making lifestyle changes. Your empathy and support is important throughout the sum of your partner's quit-smoking process, says the Quebec Lung Association, especially during the first few weeks.
Step 1
Ask how you can help. A strong support network is important to helping your partner quit smoking. Your partner may be the type of person who wants to go it alone, says the Quebec Lung Association. But she may also tell you very specifically how you can help her stay on the right path. For example, some of the things she may ask you to do is to not buy cigarettes for her if she asks. If you smoke, she may ask you not to light up around her. If you live together, she may request that your home be designated a "smoke free" zone. Honor her requests and wishes.
Step 2
Be patient during your partner's withdrawal period. The Quebec Lung Association points out that withdrawal symptoms are physical. Some of the symptoms you can expect to see in your partner are headaches, insomnia, dizziness, difficulty concentrating, fatigue, irritability, food cravings and weight gain. Be patient and understanding--and remember that his irascible behavior has nothing to do with you.
Step 3
Help your partner avoid smoking triggers. It's often difficult for quitting smokers to be around friends and colleagues who still smoke. Certain environments, such as bars that permit smoking, can be extremely tempting, according to the Mayo Clinic, bars and other drinking establishments are a dangerous proposition, as some smokers crave alcoholic beverages. Suggest spending time with nonsmoking friends. Engage your partner in "nonsmoking" entertainment. Take him to the movies, theater, museum or art gallery.
Step 4
Help your partner manage her "support" time. If she attends smoking cessation counseling or stop-smoking group meetings, make her life a little easier. Nicotine Anonymous suggests offering to drive her to meetings, cooking meals and looking after the children. Ask your partner how you can better facilitate her ability to seek outside help so that she still meets other obligations.
Step 5
Expect the occasional relapse. The Quebec Lung Association points out that many smokers acquired their habit at a very young age, and lifelong habits are tough to break. If you see your partner pick up a cigarette, remind him of what motivated him to stop smoking in the first place. Let him know that you're available to talk to him anytime he has the strong desire to smoke.
Step 6
Celebrate your partner's triumphs, no matter how small. The Quebec Lung Association points out that it's better to offer your quitting smoker an immediate reward, rather than promise her something much bigger once she finally quits for good. Reward a smoke-free day by taking her out for her favorite meal. Use the money the two of you have saved because your partner no longer buys cigarettes for a special treat.
Tips and Warnings
- The Mayo Clinic recommends physical activity as a way for quitting smokers to distract them from their cravings. Suggest going for a walk, run or bicycle ride whenever your partner is craving a nicotine fix. Some quitting smokers turn to eating just to have something to do with their hands and mouth. Keep healthy foods such as raw vegetable sticks in the fridge. Stock up on chewing gum, flavored toothpicks and hard candy.
References
- Quebec Lung Association: How to Help Someone Quit Smoking
- Nicotine Anonymous: Are You Concerned About Someone Who Smokes or Chews Tobacco?
- Mayo Clinic: Quit Smoking-Proven Strategies
- National Cancer Institute: Quitting Tobacco: Being Around Other Smokers
- Mayo Clinic: 10 Ways to Ride Out Nicotine Cravings
