How Can My Daughter Help Her Boyfriend Quit Smoking?
My daughter doesn't smoke, but her boyfriend does. She really wants to help him quit. What can she do?
– Ann
It's great that your daughter wants to help her boyfriend. But the bottom line is that for him to quit smoking, he has to want to. In the meantime, she can take steps to help him. Just knowing that he has her support can make a difference. Suggest that she help him devise a quitting plan. This might include choosing a stop date, investing in a nicotine replacement such as gum or patches, helping him to stay focused once he stops, and encouraging him to reward himself once he's reached his goal. She can remind him (without nagging or preaching) of the many benefits of quitting, including all of the money he'll be able to save. And remind her that ultimately he has to decide whether he's ready to quit.
For more information, check out these articles:
How Can I Help My Teen Quit Smoking for Good?
Kids and Smoking
Reviewed by: Larissa Hirsch, MD
Date reviewed: October 2006
Originally reviewed by: Neil Izenberg, MD
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