Be supportive.

We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again… QUITTING IS HARD. STAY POSITIVE. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• This is not your challenge.

  Lifestyle changes can be difficult. Respect the fact that the quitter is in charge of his or her progress.

• Talk about it.

  Don’t just ask if they’ve used tobacco today - ask them how they are feeling and let them know that you’re ready to talk whenever they need it.

• Distractions work.

  Having gum, mints, hard candy, or healthy snacks on-hand can help alleviate the urge to smoke or chew. Suggest activites to take their mind off smoking. Go for a walk, a bike ride, or a drive, watch a movie, play a game, or start a project together.

• Remove the evidence.

  Get rid of all tobacco products, lighters, ash trays, or anything that might remind the smoker of smoking.

• Be 100% tobacco-free.

  Make your home and car tobacco-free environments. No smoking or chewing - period.

• Make a fresh start.

  Wash clothes, bedding, drapes, and carpets to help get rid of the smell. Use air fresheners or diffuse essential oils - after 48 hours of being tobacco-free, a smoker’s sense of smell will improve.

• Help out.

  Stress is often a trigger. Offer to lighten the load by watching the kids, running an errand, helping with household chores, or cooking a meal.

• Stay positive.

  Crabby, snappy, and grumpy will be out in full force, especially during the first 2 weeks of a quit attempt. Don’t judge, lecture, nag, tease, or scold, and don’t offer advise (see: #1 above). Let them know you believe in them and ask how you can help.

• Slips happen.

  Quitting takes practice. They haven’t failed. Remind them of all the reasons they want to quit. Encourage them to try again - it will get easier!

• Celebrate!

  Every hour, day, or week that goes by is a BIG deal. Let them know you are proud of every minute they are tobacco-free!