Smoking is one of the hardest addictions to keep to the curb. Sometimes, people who try to quit end up going back to smoking as it was a way for them to feel safe. However, smoking is known to lead to many health risks of heart disease, oral and lung cancer, tooth decay, and many more. The habit must be stopped as early as possible to prevent further health complications. Here are some ways you can help your loved ones quit smoking.
Be Honest
At times, smokers do not know that their habits do have an impact on the people around them. Sit your loved ones down in a quiet space and let them know how their habit has been affecting you. Some smokers just need a reality check to realize that their smoking habits need to stop. Let them know that you want to help them through the journey, and assure them that their health will get better when they quit.
Educate Them
Many smokers pick up the habit at a young age, and it is mainly through peer pressure rather than a conscious decision. Ignorance is bliss to them when it comes to the dangers of smoking, which is why it is important to educate them. Some people may think that the dangers are exaggerated, so bring the point across positively. Rather than spelling out the dangers of smoking, try to focus on the benefits of quitting instead. Keeping the conversation positive can help to bring out the spark of motivation in them to quit smoking.
Learn Their Triggers
Every smoker will have several triggers that will make them want to smoke. These triggers can come in the form of meals, stress, or even the smell of smoke. Advise your loved ones to keep a journal of these triggers so that they know what they are. From there, get them to consciously avoid smoking when these triggers come up. You can also keep them distracted keep their mind off smoking. The first few days will be the hardest for a smoker, as the cravings are amplified and it becomes difficult to resist. Plan as many distractions as possible to minimize the time spent thinking about smoking. Yoga is a good way to take their mind off smoking. It can also be difficult for them to complete daily tasks when they are crippled with withdrawals but be patient and they will get better. Celebrate their little victories and remind them how well they are doing.
Try Nicotine Replacements
If your loved ones are afraid of going cold turkey, there are many alternatives that they can consider using to ease themselves away from cigarettes. These include nicotine patches, gum, inhalers, and more. These alternatives can give your loved ones a small dose of nicotine to reduce cravings. However, do consult a doctor before trying nicotine therapy are there can be side effects. Quitting smoking will be one of the hardest journeys your loved ones will have to go through, but with patience and perseverance, they will be able to succeed.
