How to Help a Loved One Quit Using Nicotine

Step 1: Be Accepting

The CDC reports that nicotine is as addictive as heroin so stopping may be VERY difficult for your friend or family member. Some nicotine users can quit cold turkey but many will need siginificant support before they are successful.

Step 2: Be Patient

Understand that change takes time. Many nicotine users will need treatment and several quit attempts before they are able to quit for good. Some research shows that nicotine users may need up to 30 quit attempts before they are successful.

Step 3: Be Informed

There is no quit method that works for every person, but research shows that those who use medications, nicotine replacement therapy (patches, gum and lozenges), and/or a quit coach or program double their chances at succeeding. 

Step 4: Be Compassionate

Recognize that the decision to quit is up to the nicotine or tobacco user. It may not be helpful to badger someone to quit or to get help. Being patient, kind, understanding, and supportive usually works better. Read an article from the American Lung Association about this here. 

Step 5: Be Resourceful

When your friend or family member is ready to quit, there are many tools and resources available to help them on their quit journey. For more information that you can share, click here.

Step 6: Make a Plan

There are things that you can do to effectively motivate your loved one to stop using. For a customized plan, or for more information on available tools and resources for nicotine users, contact DHR’s Quit Coach, Kaye V. Love at 410-396-9895 or email BNicotineFree@BaltimoreCity.gov.