Help Someone Quit
The decision to quit smoking must be made by the smoker, for their own reasons and in their
own time. You can’t do it for them and pressure from friends or family rarely works.
There are ways you can help make their quitting process a little easier.
Be sensitive to their needs and moods when they are trying to quit. At times they may want
help or to talk about their success. At other times they may want to be left alone.
If they slip or relapse back to smoking, don't try to make them feel guilty or ashamed. Let
them know you will help them when they're ready to try again. Be a steady source of positive
support by trying to understand the smoker and letting them find their own time to quit.
Most of all, remember they are your friend first and a smoker second. Show your friend that
you believe in them and care for them, whether they are a smoker or not.
Adapted with permission from the Canadian Cancer Society (2005).
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