When a loved one is ready to quit smoking, you must act as the support to get him through the rough days ahead. Praise him for his decision and be ready to watch him struggle. Nicotine addiction is serious form of chemical dependency. You will witness withdrawal symptoms and you may bear the brunt of his aggression for some time. Stand strong with your quitter, provide him with all the hope and love you can muster and welcome him to his new smoke-free life.
Step 1
Spend time with your loved one when you know she is feeling tempted. Offer to take her out to lunch if she usually has a cigarette on her break. Take a walk in a park together to get some fresh air. Start an exercise regimen together to encourage her healthy choices.
Step 2
Provide your loved one with whatever he needs to get through his day. Carry an extra pack of gum or hard candy for him to chew on. Have an extra supply of any cessation products he may use. Perform small chores or run errands with him to take the strain off of his day.
Step 3
Be available to your loved one whenever she may need you. Make sure she understands that he can call you or visit you whenever he is feeling tempted. Be ready to accommodate him or visit him at inconvenient times if she asks you to.
Step 4
Offer encouragement if the quitter ever slips. Never berate or be angry with him if he has a cigarette or relapses. He will shut off from you and quitting will only become harder for him if he thinks you do not believe in him. According to the American Cancer Society, a smoker will relapse on an average of five to seven times before he is able to finally kick the habit. Expect your loved one to have many slips. Remind him of how long she managed to go without smoking and how good it made him feel. Encourage him to try again.
Step 5
Celebrate every day your loved one goes without a cigarette as a victory. Encourage her to set goals, such as going one week without smoking, and reward her with a night out or a kind gift when she meets the goal.
Tips and Warnings
- Never force a loved one to quit smoking. Quitting an addiction is a serious decision that he must make on his own. Never tell your loved one that you understand what he is going through unless you yourself are an ex-smoker.
