HOW DO I HELP SOMEONE QUIT?
When someone you know has made the decision to try to quit, you can have an important role in their success. Discover ways you can support someone on their journey to a tobacco-free life.
Page last updated January 5, 2021.
Quitting is a difficult thing to do, but it’s easier with the support of friends, family, coworkers, and loved ones. About 40% of former smokers say support from others mattered a lot in their quit journey.
7 ways to help someone quit smoking:
- Be understanding of their bad moods and other nicotine withdrawal symptoms. The first week of quitting is usually the hardest. Remind them that it’ll get easier.
- If you smoke, try not to smoke near them or leave cigarettes, ashtrays, or lighters where they might see them.
- Listen to them. Avoid lecturing or criticizing.
- Ask how you can help.
- Offer healthy distractions. Change the subject or keep them occupied with smoke-free activities like going to the movies, to dinner, sporting event, or game night.
- Stay positive. Most people quit many times before they quit for good. Quitting is hard, and slip-ups are common – instead of getting angry, offer support. Encourage them to try again.
- Celebrate success! Whether it’s been one day, one week, two months, or a year, each tobacco-free day is an accomplishment. Plan something special to help them feel proud and keep motivated.
Resources
Kick It California 1-800-300-8086
Learn why it’s hard, how you can be helpful, questions to ask, specific ways to show support, quit aids that can help, and why quitting for good usually takes multiple tries.
Smokefree.gov
Not sure how to help? Want tips for supporting your quitter? Understand what smokers go through when they quit and how you can be there for them throughout the process.
Kick It California 1-800-300-8086
The counselors at the Kick It California (formerly known as California Smokers’ Helpline) can guide you in helping someone quit. Contact Kick It California via phone call, text message, or live chat. Call 1-800-300-8086. Text QUIT SMOKING or QUIT VAPING to 66819.
State and Local Cessation Resources
Get a list of available local, state and national quitting tobacco and vaping resources you need.
Tobacco Cessation Resources 2023
Cessation Clinics in Los Angeles County
Find a smoking cessation clinic near you serving in Los Angeles County.