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Helping a Friend Break the Habit
  1. Let them know that you are concerned about their smoking and why…
    2.

    Don’t criticize them, tell them you care.
  2. Only the smoker can make the decision to quit.
    3.

    Don’t nag the smoker, be patient and let them know you are there to help.
  3. Ask them what you can do to help.

    4. Everyone has different needs as they quit and you can play an important role in helping your friend quit by asking them to communicate their needs. They may not know what they need, but this will encourage them to think about it.
  4. Be there for them when they need you.
    5.

    Make sure they have contact information, like work numbers, and an idea of when and where they can reach you if needed. Be available to them.

  5. Be patient as they go through the quitting process.
    6.

    People who are in the process of quitting will be going through emotional, psychological and physical changes. This may affect the way that they behave toward others. Support them and be patient, this phase should pass.
  6. Offer them your support and encouragement.
    7.

    Constantly reinforce the great thing that they are doing tell them how proud you are that they are making this positive life change.
  7. Participate with them in healthy activities.

    8. Take walks or do some other activities that you enjoy together. This will help increase physical activity and help to distract them from focusing on that fact that they are not smoking.
  8. Encourage them to talk about their feelings as they go through the quitting process.
    9.

    Listen, but don’t judge them. Whatever they are feeling is legitimate. The quitting experience is different for everyone and can be very emotional.
  9. Support them if they slip.
    10.

    Reinforce the idea that they should never quit quitting. One mistake does not mean they should stop trying…it is only one cigarette. At the same time, it is important to let them know that having "just one cigarette" tends to lead to more and can hinder success.
  10. Continue to support them even after they have quit.

Not smoking may be difficult for the rest of their life. Remember that they will need support perhaps for years after they have their last cigarette. Little celebrations or cards, such as for an anniversary of their quit date, will remind them how proud you are of them and their commitment to be healthy and smoke-free.