Tips for Friends and Family
You Can’t Make Someone Quit, But You Can Help
Supporting a loved one who is quitting smoking, vaping, or other tobacco use can be one of the best ways to help them live a longer, healthier life. While you can’t make them quit, you can keep them motivated and offer encouragement along the way.
What You Can Do to Help
- Call the Maine QuitLink – Friends and family can call 1-800-QUIT-NOW for resources and tips on helping someone quit.
- Offer Encouragement – Let them know you’re proud of their progress. Listen, ask how you can help, and remind them how far they’ve come.
- Give Practical Help – Make a quit kit with items like gum, mints, or small distractions for cravings. Adding pictures of loved ones can be extra motivating.
- Keep Them Busy – Cravings usually pass in 5 minutes or less. Plan activities together like walks, smoke-free outings, or hobbies.
- Be Patient – Quitting takes time, and simple routines can feel hard without tobacco. Support them as they learn new habits.
- Help Reduce Stress – Offer to help with chores, run errands, or just be there to listen.
What Not to Do
- Don’t Judge or Nag – Quitting is hard and often takes many attempts. Avoid pressuring or making them feel guilty. If they slip up, encourage them to keep trying.
- Don’t Take Irritability Personally – Mood swings are normal during withdrawal and will pass over time.
- Avoid Unwanted Advice – Focus on listening and being supportive rather than giving advice they didn’t ask for.
- Don’t Smoke or Vape Around Them – If you use tobacco, avoid using it around them. Keep triggers like cigarettes and vape juice out of sight.
Helping Others Quit
Whether it’s a friend, family member, or co-worker, remember that quitting is a personal decision. By offering support, encouragement, and patience, you can play a positive role in their journey to a tobacco-free life.
Quit Your Way
We have free tools to help you quit, no matter where you are in your journey. When you’re ready to quit smoking, vaping, or using smokeless tobacco products, pick the support that works best for you.
Enroll Online
Take control of your quit journey with easy-to-use online tools. Customize a quit plan, stay motivated, and track your progress using the online dashboard. Start today and build a plan made just for you.
- Free 4-week starter kit of patch, gum, or lozenges
- Text message support
- Chat online with a coach
Call to Quit
Get free, 1-on-1 phone coaching with a trained Quit Coach to make your own quit plan. People who join are twice as likely to quit, and using free nicotine gum, patches, or lozenges can triple your chances.
- 12 weeks of free gum, patches, or lozenges
- Talk with a Quit Coach
- Unlimited support