How Family Can Help An Individual Stop Smoking?
An individual is probably smoking because he feels the urge to smoke for various reasons.
One main reason could be stress. At all times, if a smoker is working towards quitting smoking, the support of the family will be of great help. The smoker will definitely appreciate the situation, and they will only work faster towards quitting smoking.
“The first step the family or companions must do in such a situation, is to stop criticizing the smoker.”
By doing that, it would only increase the chances of him feeling more stressed, as well as the urge to smoke more. Every time the smoker reaches for a cigarette, he can gently be reminded that he has been smoking several cigarettes as it is.
The family needs to give moral support especially if the smoker is used to heavy smoking, and is in a position where he needs medical attention. Many times, no one will be at fault for something they do, so the best way to sort it out, is to help him get through the phase. They should not be reminded that they are causing a lot of expenses, as this is going to increase his stress levels.
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The family can also play a role, in helping them get to a good counselor or a good center, where they allow the smoker and the family to attend sessions.
The family can also accompany them if the need arises, as this will give them greater moral support. If there are no close family members to help, the assistance of a trusted friend will do a great deal.
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With the presence of the family members, the smokers will be encouraged to stop smoking faster.
They will know that they are not being excluded out of the emotional bond, and it will go a long way. This is especially important for any individual who has a severe problem controlling his urges to smoke. If they have been through this habit for a long time, they should also be given time.
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The family also needs to understand that this cannot be done overnight.
They will have to be patient and understand that a long standing habit will be hard to break so soon. The support group will also have to know that they will need to be persistant and help the smoker, as they will tend to slip in between.
Filed under: Family Support