How to encourage a friend to quit – without being a nag about it! 

Helping a friend to quit smoking is one of the best things that you can do for them. It is crucial to support smokers and not to criticize them as they try to become smoke-free. 

When it comes down to it, it is up to the smoker to quit smoking. However, through the provision of support and consideration you can assist a friend as they work towards quitting. How can help you help? For starters, the best thing to do requires listening to and encouraging your friend. It is very difficult to quit smoking so be sure to let your friend know that you understand that.  Remember that smoking causes addiction and that most people who begin to quit smoking will experience physical withdrawal symptoms that can last from 48 hours to up to four weeks! Be extra supportive for your friend during this time and remind them that these symptoms are only temporary and will eventually pass.


Other things that can be done include encouraging your friend to choose a health activity such as jogging. And hey, why not do it with them! (Check out http://www.quitrunchill.org/ for more details regarding a program that can help you with this!)


A good thing to do is the avoid places that allow smoking. This helps your friend to resist the urge to smoke! Though if your friend does slip and starts smoking again, be sure to continuously encourage them! You can remind them that most people who stay smoke free have tried numerous times until they were completely successful. You can look at what got your friend to start smoking again and work towards avoiding it. Then make sure to celebrate your friend’s success when they become smoke-free! You can even send your friend an e-card to inspire them to quit smoking!  


Check it out: http://www.lung.ca/involved-impliquez/ecards-cartes/quitting-ecraser_e.php 


Reference: http://www.lung.ca/protect-protegez/tobacco-tabagisme/quitting-cesser/friend-ami_e.php






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