If your family member or friend is a smoker, you might feel inclined to push them to quit. DON’T. Quitting smoking is a very personal thing to do. When talking with a smoker, your goal shouldn’t be to bully them into quitting, but rather help them realize they need to. To navigate this sensitive topic, here are some tips on what you can do to support.
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Get their permission to talk about their smoking habits by asking a starter question like, “What do you like about smoking?”
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Ask open-ended questions like, "How would your life be different if you didn't smoke?"
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Be encouraging and empathetic. Stay away from judgmental comments, especially if they slip up.
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Help them understand their reasons for quitting by asking questions like, "What are the most important reasons you have for quitting?"
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Find out out what their thoughts are on the idea of quitting smoking and how you can help to support their quit.
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Once the conversation has started, make sure you can explain the benefits of quitting smoking. Here are some of the very best reasons.
Help support a friend through withdrawal
When your friend or family member quits smoking, they will most likely experience some nicotine withdrawal symptoms. These vary by person, but for most people, the worst of the symptoms peak at ten days. Knowing what some of these symptoms are can enable you to help your friend through them
Signs of Withdrawal
- Depressed mood
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Poor concentration
- Restlessness
- Irritability
- Hunger
What you can do
- Remind them that these symptoms are temporary
- Spend time with them or go for a walk
- Recommend meditation or other relaxation techniques
- Help them avoid contact with other friends who smoke
- Remind them of the benefits of quitting smoking
- Encourage them to talk to their healthcare provider about Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT)
Source: Smokefree.gov, Do I Have Nicotine Withdrawal? Apr. 2015.
According to the National Cancer Institute, NRT delivers measured doses of nicotine, which helps to relieve cravings and withdrawal symptoms people may experience when quitting smoking. NRT is an effective treatment that can increase the likelihood of quitting smoking.
