|
Be supportive of quitters |
|
Be tolerant towards people who are quitting smoking, it's not easy, and it will help if you are supportive at all times. There could be some character changes which could strain a relationship. |
|
|
Helping Someone Prepare to Quit |
|
Congratulations. Your support and encouragement for someone trying to quit could be the motivation they need during a tough time. Here are a few things you can do to help them prepare to quit.
Your Quit-Smoking Role:
You might already know what it’s like when a smoker is trying to quit. It can be a difficult time. And while you can’t force anyone to quit, when the time is right, you can provide encouragement when they need it. Here’s what you can do:
Know that the beginning can be tough – The first few weeks during a smoker's quit can be the toughest. Try to create a stress-free environment whenever possible.
Focus on the positives rather than the negatives – Most smokers already know that smoking is bad for them and that they need to quit. Instead of telling them what they need to do, try to focus on their achievements. Tell them you're proud of them as often as you can, and support them with encouraging messages if they slip up.
Never tell a smoker they can have "just one" – No matter how much a smoker is tempted to smoke, or how challenged they may feel, you should not encourage them to smoke for any reason. Doing so may make it harder for them in the long run.
Provide support whenever possible – There are many things you may be able do help boost a smoker's confidence in their ability to quit:
- Tell them that you're proud of their progress.
- Offer to take breaks or walks.
- Help them celebrate quit anniversaries.
- Limit their exposure to cigarettes, especially if you are a smoker yourself.
- Ask them if there's anything you can do to help.
- If they slip up, encourage them not to give up.
Encourage them to speak to their doctor – Their doctor knows their medical history and can play an important role in helping them get the proper treatment.
|
|
Helping someone to quit smoking |
|
Remember. Be patient and supportive. The smoker you are going to try to help is facing what is potentially one of the greatest challenges of their life. And give yourself a pat on the back, too. Helping someone get started on the road to quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for their health. |
|
Starting a quit-smoking conversation with your doctor |
|
Here are a few things you might say if you're thinking about quitting smoking:
- I have been a smoker for ____ years, and I'm ready to quit.
- I want to quit smoking because _________.
- I would like to start quitting smoking on _______.
- I have/have not tried to quit smoking before, but I would like to now.
- I have tried to quit smoking ________ times in the past, and I'm ready to try again.
- When I tried to quit smoking in the past, I have experienced nicotine withdrawal symptoms, like ______.
- I've heard that there are benefits to quitting smoking, like __________. Can you tell me some of the other potential benefits?
|
|
|
|
|
