Home | Health | Addiction & Abuse | Quit Smoking | How to Ask Someone to Quit Smoking

How to Ask Someone to Quit Smoking

by Genevieve Adams

Overview

Smoking is a dangerous, unhealthy and expensive habit that can affect not only the smoker, but the people around her. Despite the obvious negative aspects of smoking, it is addictive and difficult to stop for many people. Asking someone to quit smoking could be an uncomfortable situation filled with awkward moments and hurt feelings. But proper preparation and thought can allow the conversation to remind the smoker that you care about her.

Step 1

Write down the reasons that you want the person to quit smoking. Think about the health reasons, cleanliness, and the effect on people around him. Recording your thoughts on paper will help you organize and develop what you wish to say.
Step 2

Consider and write down things you would be willing to do to help her quit smoking. Simply telling her that she needs to quit can make her feel isolated, but offering help shows that you are truly willing to support her efforts. Consider helping her research nicotine-replacement products, or offer to purchase an item such as LifeSign's QuitKey, a small computer that helps to slowly wean a smoker off of cigarettes.
Step 3

Plan the time that you will approach the smoker. Think carefully about his schedule, and choose a time when he is most likely to be relaxed, calm and open.
Step 4

At your planned time, approach the smoker and tell her that there is something you would like to talk about. Ask whether now would be a good time for a conversation. If you get the feeling that she might not be open, you might want to postpone the talk.
Step 5

Explain that this is a hard thing for you to talk about, but that you need to bring it up because you care. Showing vulnerability will keep you from coming off as condescending or accusatory.
Step 6

Ask that he consider quitting smoking, and talk about the reasons for your request.
Step 7

Let her know the things you are willing to do to help her in the quitting process and how much you believe in her ability to give up the habit.
Step 8

Be patient during the quitting process. Jennifer A. Kern, a behavioral counselor for the Mayo Clinic, recommends staying positive when you talk about quitting smoking, focusing on how proud and appreciative you are of the efforts being made.

2
If you find that talking to the smoker is too difficult, you can write a letter that encompasses the things you would like to say.
If you find that talking to the smoker is too difficult, you can write a letter that encompasses the things you would like to say.
Do not nag someone about smoking, as that can be upsetting and actually act as a deterrent to quitting.
Do not nag someone about smoking, as that can be upsetting and actually act as a deterrent to quitting.