There are many ways to provide support for those quitting smoking. The best way, however, is to find out what the person quitting feels would be most helpful. Your idea of what is helpful or “best” for them, may not be what they think is “best” for them.
First, accept that you may not know the best way to support them. Asking them what they feel would be helpful is one way to make sure that you are both honoring their way of doing things. It also provides an open invitation to them that you will be a listening ear when they need it.
Some supportive strategies to consider are:
Verbal Encouragement:
“Checking in” with them regularly can be helpful. Inquire more about how they are doing overall – and not necessarily whether they have smoked. And, while some may desire your more regular inquiring about how it is going, others may not – or at the very least, may not want this so often. So, make sure to ask them about what they feel would be most helpful here.
Acknowledge or celebrate the progress/milestones of their quit journey. Show them that you are proud of their efforts!
Action Steps:
Prepare a “grab bag” for them filled with straws, toothpicks, cinnamon sticks, sugar-free gum, hard candies, etc. Behavioral substitutes like these can go a long way when a craving strikes.
Cut up fresh vegetables (such as carrots and celery sticks) to have handy in the fridge for them. Sometimes these extra steps, like cutting up the veggies, can be a big barrier to someone trying to make such a major lifestyle change such as quitting smoking.
Make your home and vehicles smoke-free. Remove all smoking-related items, such as ashtrays and lighters. Wash all clothes that smell of smoke, and clean carpets, upholstery, and drapes. If possible, have all vehicles professionally detailed. Air fresheners can be helpful in both the home and vehicles as well.
Offer to help them work through a craving by joining them on a walk or going to a local cafe for a cup of coffee.
When a slip, lapse, or relapse happens:
Continue to believe in the person’s ability to quit smoking and remind them of the progress they have made in their efforts to quit (how long they were able to stay quit, what they learned about themselves along the way, and what was most helpful for them when they were able to quit).
Remember that it takes time to learn how to be a non-smoker, so patience and understanding will be key in your supportive efforts.
What do you think is most helpful when supporting someone quitting smoking?
Reference: How to Help Someone Quit Smoking | American Cancer Society
