There are many obvious health, financial and social benefits of quitting smoking, but that does not make stopping easy. Smoking is an extremely addictive habit and those who are held tightly in its grip are not easily loosed from it. It is is important to help and support friends and family members who have made the decision to quit smoking. How can you help someone quit smoking? Consider these simple yet powerful suggestions.
Be Encouraging
It is important to be encouraging throughout the entire quitting process. Likely this was not an easy decision for the quitter and he or she wants to be continually reassured that it is the right one. When someone tells you that he or she has decided to quit smoking make an encouraging reply such as:
- That's Great!
- I'm here for you.
- Let me know how I can help.
- I know you can do it!
Try not to make discouraging remarks such as:
- Finally!
- What? You decided you don't want to die?
- Good luck! (sarcastically)
- I hope you can do it. You've been smoking so long!
Be a True Friend
A smoker will be giving up more than cigarettes when he or she quits. A quitter may also have to spend less time with friends who smoke and at familiar places where he or she often smoked that might be a temptation. This can be difficult and make for a lonely road to recovery. Someone trying to quit needs real friends who will encourage him to quit rather then tempt him into a relapse. Be a true friend by being there for the quitter when he needs support and listening to him.
Do Not Criticize
Being overly critical of someone trying to quit smoking will not help at all. Even if the quitter has a relapse one should still remain positive and encouraging. Remind the quitter they he or she can still reach the goal and that even though he or she may have made a mistake, it is never too late to quit. Don't be overly mad or worried. Encourage the person to be strong, to remember the benefits of quitting and try again. Be patient with the friend or family member trying to quit in order to help him or her be successful.
Do Not be Sensitive
Addiction can turn anyone into someone that they are not. If the person you are trying to help lashes out at you don't take it too personally. Remember that nicotine addiction is strong and so are the withdrawal symptoms. No matter what happens and no matter what the quitter may do or say at the time, in the future, he or she will be thankful for all the support that he or she got during this difficult time.
Helping someone walk away from an addiction to nicotine can be difficult. but it is necessary. When helping someone quit act as a true friend by being encouraging rather then critical and not taking things too personally. This will make the road to success easier to follow for the quitter and those around him or her.
Sources:
- The Ultimate Quit Smoking Guide *"How to Help Someone Quit Smoking" (accessed September 23, 2010)
Sydnye Isabella Helu - Sydnye Helu is an artist with a love for words and the beauty they have the power to create when side by side.
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