Helping Someone Stay Smoke-Free

Stopping smoking can be difficult. There will be challenges for new non-smokers to overcome. Listed below are suggestions on how you can help.

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Feeling anxious or stressed There is a good chance that your family members or friends smoked to help them relax. As non-smokers, they will have to find other ways to deal with stress. You can help by offering to take a walk or being there to listen.

Feeling bored New non-smokers may want to start some new activities to keep busy. Offering to go to a movie or take a bicycle ride can be helpful.

Changes in mood Most people who stop smoking feel nervous and irritable. Some people may also feel depressed after quitting. These reactions are normal and only temporary. You can help by offering support to your family members or friends.

Lack of willpower There may be a time when your family members or friends tell you that they can't do it anymore. "It's just too hard." You can help by being there to listen and telling them how well they are doing. Remind them of their reasons for stopping smoking. Encourage them to keep trying.

Being around other people who are smoking It's hard for new non-smokers to be around others who are smoking. If you smoke, you can help by smoking outside or in a room that your family members or friends can avoid. Also sit in the nonsmoking section, or suggest activities in places where smoking is not allowed.

The best thing you can do when someone close to you stops smoking is to provide support and encouragement. You can also help by suggesting that your family members or friends talk to their doctor about the support resources available in the area.

When Someone Close to You Stops Smoking

There are many ways you can help someone close to you who has decided to stop smoking. The most important way is to be as supportive as you can. Tell them how happy you are that they have decided to quit. Encourage them to keep trying, even if they are having a bad day. Most of all just be there to listen!

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Here are some other ways you can help a smoker who is trying to stop smoking:

• Ask how they are feeling from time to time.

• Don't do anything that may tempt them to start smoking again.

• Encourage them to get back on track if they slip up.

• Understand that they may feel overwhelmed at times.

• Surprise them with a reward for getting through a tough time or making it to a certain day. Take them to lunch.

• Join them for a walk or other activity to keep their mind off smoking.

• Don't nag — just be there to help.

Keep in mind that stopping smoking is a gradual process and it may take time for your family member or friend to feel comfortable as a non-smoker.

Be patient and keep a positive outlook. By showing understanding and being supportive, you are showing that you care and that you are really trying to help in their stop smoking effort.