My wife has just stopped smoking, what can I do to help her?

The first thing you can do is probably to give her all your attention and take time to listen to her, as smokers are often obsessed with cigarettes when going through cessation. Later, you will have to show patience in the face of irritability or anxiety attacks. Remember that the physical withdrawal phase does not last for long.

One of my children has stopped smoking, I hid all the ashtrays and ask him every evening if he is hanging in there. What else can I do to help?

If you want to help your child, you mustn’t feel responsible for his smoking: this is something only he can do. You can show support by listening to him, but avoid asking questions. Wait for him to talk about it, try to detect these moments of doubts and suggest activities. Don’t make tobacco your main topic of conversation.

My husband has quit several times. I really want him to succeed this time, what can I do to help?

Relapsing is a normal stage in the process of long-lasting cessation. Help him understand why he relapsed, it’ll help him avoid any future tricky situations. Encourage him, tell him that if he managed to live several times without tobacco, this proves that he can do it again. If he wishes, discuss his motivations, tell him how proud you are, and that you trust him. You could also bring up your next week-end at the seaside, or a celebration meal you are planning to have at the end of the month, thanks to the money saved that will reward him for his efforts. Quitting smoking doesn’t have to be synonymous with hard times...