Just like any big change in life, quitting smoking can be tough when you don’t have a solid support system that truly gets what you’re going through. 

It can make a huge difference if you’ve got a friend or loved one who’s also trying to quit—someone who understands the ups and downs and will be there by your side through the tough moments.

The same goes the other way around. 

Even if you’re not a smoker, but you’re someone offering support, there are ways you can help without being too pushy. 

After all, people need to want to quit for themselves to have the best chance of success.

So, whether you’re going through it or supporting someone who is, let’s talk about some ways to help your loved one break the habit for good.

Be understanding

When you’re helping someone quit smoking, the first thing you need to do is understand and accept that this journey is going to be incredibly difficult for them. 

Nicotine is a strong addiction, and it can bring out the worst in even the calmest and kindest person. 

It’s not something they can simply overcome with a bit of willpower—it’s a real battle.

So, set your expectations realistically. Don’t expect your loved one to quit overnight, or even manage it on their first attempt. 

And try not to show frustration if they slip up along the way. 

Quitting smoking is a process, and like any process, it comes with its fair share of setbacks. 

It’s not just about stopping; it’s about managing cravings, habits, and emotions, which can be overwhelming at times. 

At the end of the day, your support can make a world of difference, but it’s important to remember that this is their journey, and it’s not always going to be smooth sailing.

Share helpful information with them

Having a good understanding of how quitting smoking can benefit someone is a great way to keep them motivated while they try to kick the habit. 

As someone offering support, you can play an active role by sharing helpful resources. 

These could be articles, videos, or even books about the dangers of smoking and the many ways quitting can drastically improve their health and quality of life.

It’s not just about them either. 

Quitting smoking has a positive impact on the people around them too, like family and friends, who’ll no longer be exposed to secondhand smoke. 

Be there for them

Another way to help is by being a listening ear and emotional support system. Quitting can be an emotional rollercoaster and having someone to talk to can make a huge difference. Listen to their concerns, give them encouragement, and be there for them during the tough times.

If you’re a smoker yourself and want to help your friend quit, the best way to do that is by quitting yourself. Not only will you be leading by example, but you can also share your own experience and give them tips and advice.

Practical support is also important. You can help by arranging transportation to appointments, finding support groups or even helping with the cost of quitting.

It’s also essential to remind them that quitting is a process and it takes time. Encourage them to keep going, even if they slip up, and remind them that they’re not alone in this journey.

Help them create a quit plan

Another way you can help is by helping them create a quit plan. A quit plan is a personalized plan that includes steps and strategies for dealing with cravings, triggers and other challenges.

You can help them set a quit date, identify triggers and avoid them, develop coping strategies and even seek professional help.

Suggest helpful therapies

Cold turkey (quitting with no assistance) is very difficult and can make their attempt less successful, so consider providing your loved one with information about medications and therapies that can help them quit.

Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) is a popular and effective method that comes in different forms like gum, patches, lozenges, inhalers, or nasal sprays.

Nicotine vaping products are now also available from your local pharmacy. The latest cochrane update found “high-certainty evidence that electronic cigarettes with nicotine increase quit rates compared to NRT.”

They can also use prescription medications like bupropion and varenicline to help them quit.

Remember, it may take a few attempts

Lastly, remember that quitting smoking is a journey and not a destination. It may take a few attempts before your friend is successful in quitting. So, don’t give up on them and continue to provide support and encouragement.

In short, quitting smoking is a difficult task but you can make it easier for your loved one by being supportive, understanding and providing helpful resources.

Quitting smoking is a journey, but with the right support, it’s possible for them to quit for good.