She may open up a discussion by asking for your opinion: “I spend so much money a month on cigarettes. I wonder if I should find a way to cut back. What do you think?” When she does, you can help her to reflect: “Yeah, I mean, it would save you a ton of money to quit. Do you think it would make you happier if you quit smoking?” You may have to wait until she is ready to quit smoking. [2] X Expert Source Tracy Carver, PhDLicensed Psychologist Expert Interview. 7 January 2021. No pills or set of facts are going to convince her to stop smoking until she is ready for it. [3] X Expert Source Tracy Carver, PhDLicensed Psychologist Expert Interview. 7 January 2021. Counseling can help her to overcome her resistance to quitting. [4] X Expert Source Tracy Carver, PhDLicensed Psychologist Expert Interview. 7 January 2021.
“You’re really important to me and so is your health. " “I want to see you getting to be as happy as you possibly can be, and I don’t think that’ll happen as long as you’re smoking. " Just because a conversation happens, don’t assume she’ll quit right away. Stay positive, be patient, and don’t give up on your girlfriend!
“What would you say are the biggest struggles you’re facing right now?” “What about quitting excites you most?” “Is there anything that scares you about quitting? Can I help you talk through those worries?”
Pull together a list of facts sheets, like those found on the CDC website: https://www. cdc. gov/tobacco/campaign/tips/quit-smoking/index. html. Write down a list of quit-lines, like those found here: https://www. cdc. gov/tobacco/campaign/tips/quit-smoking/quitline/index. html. Compare apps that can help her quit, like quitSTART (https://www. cdc. gov/tobacco/campaign/tips/quit-smoking/quitstart-app/) or QuitGuide (https://smokefree. gov/tools-tips/apps/quitguide).
Check for support groups in your area. Or, if you’re looking for a more flexible option, support groups are now offered online as well.
Nicotine gum, patches, or spray. Straws or gum to chew on. Cut up veggies for her to crunch. Popcorn to snack on throughout the day.
Encourage her to make healthy choices for herself, like eating and sleeping well. Help her stick to an active lifestyle. Join her for long walks, bike rides, or swims.
Don’t say, “Don’t drink that coffee, you know it brings on cravings. ” Instead, try, “Hey, it’s your call. But would you want to get a cup of tea instead? I could pick some up from that place you love. ” Don’t say, “You can’t slip up again. Imagine going through this another time. " Instead, try, “You’ve made it two weeks and three days! Wow, that’s amazing. I’m so excited to watch you finally kick smoking for good. I’ll be here for you the whole time. "
“You’re doing great. I’m so proud of you!” “This must be so hard, and I want you to know that I’m right here with you. You got this!”
Take her to a yoga class. Or, find one online and join her for practice in the living room! Turn on music she loves and dance it out in the kitchen. Or, offer to join her in something she’s passionate about. If your girlfriend is a skateboarding extraordinaire, take her to the skate park for a few hours!
Offering to join her on a quick run around the park if she’s feeling jumpy and restless. Offering to skip that last, mid-afternoon cup of coffee with her. Caffeine’s effects last longer in someone who’s just quit smoking. Gently reminding her that this is totally natural for a body getting used to being without nicotine.
Find reasons to make seemingly small milestones a big deal. Buy her a special treat to celebrate each day, week, and month without a cigarette.
“That was a great try. Next time, you’ll be even more prepared to take on the challenge. " “I want you to know that I’m so proud of you for that attempt. If you decide to go for it again, I’ll be right here to support you. "
If you yourself are having a hard time supporting her while maintaining your mental health, reach out to your own support system. Make sure you still make enough time for yourself each week. Prioritize doing things you love, getting good rest, exercising, and eating well.
Financial gains. Long term health benefits. No longer exposing loved ones to second-hand smoke. Cosmetic benefits.
