If your partner has made the life-changing decision to give up smoking, you will understandably want to help them. But you might feel you are unable to because you haven’t had an addiction to smoking yourself. Even though you haven’t experienced it first hand, doesn’t mean you have to feel useless. Studies have found that those who are given support during the quitting process are more likely to succeed. So whether you realize it or not, you play a significant role in your partner’s quitting success. Here are some simple methods you can use to boost your confidence and give your partner the vital support they need.
Go with them to support groups
One of the best ways of giving up smoking is by attending weekly support groups. These groups allow ex-smokers to share their experiences and advice in order to help others. If your partner is serious about giving up for good, attending these sessions can help them reach their goal. However, they might be scared or nervous about going to their first meeting. So casually offer to go with them. Try not to be too forceful as this can put them off from attending altogether. Even if they don’t want you to go in with them, knowing you are waiting outside can be reassuring.
To help relieve your partner’s anxiety, even more, talk to people you know who have gone through the process. They can talk to your partner about what is involved which can help them to relax beforehand.
Find a distraction
To help divert your partner’s attention from their nicotine cravings, come up with some distraction ideas. This should be something that will interest your partner and make them eager to get involved. Popular distractions include going for a walk, baking or watching a movie. Encouraging your partner to take up a new hobby can also be an effective distraction you can use.
But try to avoid any distractions that might involve other smokers such as going to a bar. This will only heighten your partner’s cravings and make them more likely to give into temptation.
Do your research
If you’ve never smoked a cigarette before, it can be difficult to understand how difficult giving up can be. This could mean you aren’t sympathetic or understanding when your partner has bad days. To prevent this from happening, learn as much as you can about smoking and the quitting process. You can discover what side-effects your partner may experience as they withdraw from their smoking habit. Learning about effective smoking aids and the stages of COPD can also be beneficial. Don’t be afraid to ask your doctor for some insight and advice too. The more understanding you have, the more effective your support will be.
There’s no denying that giving up smoking is an often long and difficult process. If you find it too difficult to cope with your partner’s highs and lows, don’t isolate yourself. Build a support network for yourself which includes friends and family. That way you can remain strong for your partner throughout.
