HOW TO HELP SOMEONE QUIT TOBACCO
Do you know someone who is thinking about quitting tobacco, or has already quit? Here are some ways you can support them on their tobacco-free journey:
- Ask questions: What made you decide to quit? What do you think would make quitting easier? The answers can help you understand how the person is feeling and how you can help.
- Listen: You may be tempted to offer advice, but the decision to quit is personal, and what worked for one person may not work for the next. Just listening can help people feel accepted and loved instead of judged.
- Be a Distraction: Plan tobacco-free activities like going to a movie, or hanging out with friends and family who do not use tobacco. Suggest a new activity that is less likely to cause triggers.
- Reduce Stress: The stress of daily life is why most people use tobacco. Suggest new ways to help them cope and unwind like breathing exercises, mindfulness activities, exercise, or talking to someone. There are tons of apps out there that can help with all of these.
- Be positive and patient: Withdrawal can cause irritability and cravings can last weeks or months. Many people quit several times before finding success. Show them you’re in it for the long-haul and all the ups and downs.
Source: tobaccofree.org