When someone you love decides they’re ready to quit smoking, it can feel like a huge relief, but it can also be a challenge. Quitting isn’t easy. Nicotine is addictive, and smoking often becomes part of a person’s daily routine, from that first cigarette with morning coffee to the one they reach for when stressed. The good news is that people are more likely to succeed when they have strong support. That’s where you come in.

As a family member, friend or partner, you can be a steady source of encouragement, helping them stay motivated and making the process feel less overwhelming. Your role isn’t to lecture or nag. It’s to walk alongside them, offering patience, understanding and practical help. Even small gestures can make a big difference.

Here are seven ways you can make someone’s journey to becoming smoke-free a little easier:

• Show support through encouragement. Start by letting them know you’re proud of their decision to quit. Believing in them can boost their confidence and keep them motivated, especially on tough days. Be ready to listen when they want to talk and celebrate the fact that they’re trying, even if they’ve slipped up in the past.
• Help them create a plan. Quitting is easier with a plan. Encourage your loved one to pick a quit date and think through the moments that trigger cravings, like after meals, during work breaks or when stressed. Help them brainstorm healthier ways to handle triggers, like going for a short walk or keeping sugar-free gum handy.
• Be ready with distractions. Cravings usually last only a few minutes, but in the moment they can feel overwhelming. Offering a distraction can help. Invite them to take a walk, play a game or chat on the phone.
• Encourage healthy coping tools. Stress is one of the biggest reasons people reach for a cigarette. You can suggest healthier ways to cope, like deep breathing, listening to music or engaging in a hobby. Gentle exercise or stretching can also release tension and improve mood.
• Support with practical tools. Some people find success using nicotine replacement products like patches or gum, while others may need prescription medication or counseling. Encourage your loved one to talk with a healthcare provider about what might work best for them. You can also point them toward quit lines, apps or support groups for extra guidance.
• Stay patient during the hard days. Quitting comes with withdrawal symptoms like irritability, trouble sleeping or difficulty concentrating. These usually ease with time, but they can be tough in the beginning. Instead of taking things personally, remind yourself it’s part of the process. If they slip up and smoke, don’t criticize. Offer encouragement and help them get back on track.
• Celebrate their progress. Every milestone is worth celebrating. Remind them of the benefits they’re already seeing, like saving money, having more energy and smelling fresher. Focusing on the positives can help them stay motivated for the long run.

Quitting smoking is one of the hardest but most rewarding choices a person can make for their health. Your belief in them can be one of their strongest tools in the process, and with your support, they don’t have to do it alone. Be patient, stay encouraging and remind them that every attempt brings them closer to success.

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