Helping Others Quit

Smoking is a powerful physical and psychological addiction, and quitting can be painfully difficult. Smokers need compassion, support and understanding while they're struggling to become smoke-free. Here's how you can help:

1. Understand addiction and withdrawal. Cigarettes are a real psychological and physical addiction. Most smokers who quit experience physical withdrawal symptoms. These peak within 48 hours, but might last as long as four weeks. Be especially patient with them during that time.
   
   
2. Ask how you can help. Make yourself available as much as possible, especially during the first few days. Tell them that you're 'adopting' them during this process.
   
   
3. Listen. Don't preach or counsel, just listen. Be prepared for anger and hostility, and understand that irritability can be a normal - and temporary - part of the withdrawal process. Encourage them to talk openly about their feelings.
   
   
4. Let them know about the support services that are available. Counselling and group support increases the chances of quitting. Send them some links to Online Help, or give them a list of cessation programs available in Alberta.
   
   
5. Encourage them to talk to a doctor. Advice and counselling from a doctor or health professional doubles the success rate.
   
   
6. Help them avoid smoke and smokers as much as possible. Engage them in healthy activities that are not associated with smoking (walking, swimming, yoga, etc.), especially in the first few weeks. Or take them to places where smoking is not allowed (theatres, libraries, department stores, etc.). Help them avoid places or situations where it would be all too easy to have 'just one.'
   
   
7. Offer practical support. Quitting can be a very stressful process. Offer to take their kids for a few hours or to help with the housework. 
   
   
8. Keep a supply of smoking substitutes on hand. People who quit smoking miss the oral satisfaction of handling and inhaling a cigarette. Keep a supply of gum, mints, toothpicks and straws on hand.
   
   
9. Don't expect overnight success. Many smokers do not become life-long nonsmokers with their first quit attempt. Quitting is a process, and may involve setbacks. If they slip-up, encourage them to try quitting again as soon as possible. Talk about what triggered the setback and how they could deal with it differently the next time.
   
   
10. Celebrate their success. Help to mark significant milestones (for instance: 3 days, 1 week, 1 month). Take them out to dinner, send flowers or book them for a massage.