Tips to help someone quit smoking.

Most smokers say that support makes it easier to quit smoking. In fact, your encouragement coupled with proven cessation methods can double a smoker’s chances of successfully quitting.

It may sound intimidating, but helping someone quit smoking is easy! Following some practical tips can make you the best quit smoking aid around.

Help through encouragement.

• First, simply ask your friend or family member if you can offer support as he or she learns to quit. Two people are stronger than one.
• Don't threaten, nag or lecture about the effects of smoking. Focus on the benefits of quitting smoking like more money and better health.
• If temptation strikes, remind her why she decided to stop smoking. Stress the benefits of quitting smoking rather than the dangers of continuing to smoke.
• Be prepared for bad moods. Nicotine withdrawal can make some people irritable so try to indulge the occasional bad mood.
• Make sure that you are available in person or by telephone. Keep in touch. Avoid pestering though, as he may be managing fine!

Help through your actions.

• Send him a card on their quitting day to wish him good luck.
• If you smoke, be considerate. Don't offer him cigarettes. Don't leave full ashtrays lying about, and try to smoke away from your friend so you don't make things harder for him.
• Visit your local pharmacist with her to discover available quitting medications.
• Make sure she knows about UtahQuitNet.com—Utah’s online community committed to providing personalized help and tips. She can get helpful advice from previous quitters and those who are trying to quit.
• Join your quitter by giving up a habit of your own - it won't be the same as giving up smoking but it could help you empathize with the feelings your friend may be experiencing.

Helping in creative ways.

• Make up a quitter's "survival kit." It could include a booklet about how to stop smoking, sugar-free gum, low-calorie snacks like carrots and fruit, and maybe even a treat (like tickets to the movies for the end of the first day).
• Plan a shopping trip after a week or two so your friend can buy something special with the money saved by not smoking.
• Plan activities that avoid the temptation to smoke - perhaps swimming or going to the movies. The more she can get used to socializing without smoking the easier it will become to separate smoking from old habits. If she wants to go to a club or bar, plan on going to one of Utah’s smoke-free bars or clubs.