1. Ask them how you can help

Everyone is different. Ask your friend to tell you why and how they plan to quit. If you used to smoke, you might want to give them advice. Listen to their thoughts first. Then ask them how you can support their plan. Let them know you are there for them

3. Stay positive

Quitting smoking is already stressful. Frequently asking your friend or family member about their smoking can add to that stress. You could end up pushing them back into it. Ask them how you can help. Be positive so they can be positive too.

5. Celebrate success

Celebrate your friend or family member‘s successes. Did they make it through one day without smoking? Hurrah! Two weeks? Amazing! Celebrate their achievements.

2. Be understanding

It’s hard to break an addiction. Your friend or family member may be in a bad mood after quitting. This is a common symptom of nicotine withdrawal. It will pass. Give them the space they need to get through these tough times. Ask them how you can help.

4. Distract them

Cravings happen. Help your family member or friend get through cravings by distracting them. Take a walk with them or take them shopping. Or just be there when they need someone to talk to.

6. Tell your friend about us!

Tobacco Free Nova Scotia can help. We offer personalized support, without judgment, to help your friend or family member quit smoking. A caring counsellor can work with them, at their pace, to help them make their own plan and follow it. Our counsellors have the skills and experience to help someone quit using tobacco no matter what kind of product they use. They can also help them to quit vaping.

All services are free and confidential.