Supporting someone you care about in their journey to quit smoking can be challenging but also incredibly rewarding. This guide introduces the Ask, Advise, Help approach, adapted for loved ones, to help you have productive, non-judgmental conversations and offer meaningful support.
Why Start the Conversation?
For many smokers, having someone they trust initiate a conversation about quitting can be the nudge they need to start their journey. As a loved one, your role is to approach the topic with care, understanding, and patience. Quitting is a personal decision, but your support can make a world of difference.
Step One: Ask
Ask your loved one about their smoking in a gentle, non-confrontational way. Some ways to open the discussion include:
- "I’ve been reading about ways to support people who want to quit smoking. Is that something you’ve been thinking about?"
- "How do you feel about the idea of cutting back or quitting smoking?"
This step is about creating a safe space for dialogue. Avoid making accusations or judgments. Instead, focus on understanding their feelings and perspective.
Step Two: Advise
If they’re open to talking, offer advice in a supportive, personalised way. Frame the conversation around their health, goals, and well-being, and avoid pushing too hard. Some examples:
- "I know how much you’ve been working on staying healthy—it might be a good time to think about quitting smoking to help with that."
- "I read that quitting smoking can help with [insert personal health concern, like breathing or fitness]. Maybe we can explore some options together?"
Keep it positive and centered on their reasons for quitting, not your own agenda.
Step Three: Help
Offer concrete ways to help them take the first steps toward quitting. You can:
- Suggest looking into resources together, like Quitline or support groups.
- Help them find a pharmacist or health professional who can recommend cessation aids like nicotine replacement therapy (NRT).
- Offer to be their accountability buddy or join them in building healthier habits, like going for walks instead of smoke breaks.
Ask what kind of support they need—some people may want practical help, while others may just want encouragement and understanding.
Supporting Them Beyond the First Step
Quitting smoking is a process, and setbacks are normal. Remind your loved one that you’re there for them, no matter what. Celebrate small wins, like cutting back or going a day smoke-free, and encourage them to keep going.
If they’re hesitant about quitting, don’t push—keep the door open for future conversations. Sometimes, just knowing you care can make a big difference.
Final Thoughts
The Ask, Advise, Help model isn’t just for health professionals—it’s a simple and effective way for loved ones to support someone they care about. Your encouragement and understanding can be a powerful motivator, helping your loved one take the first steps toward a healthier, smoke-free future.
References: https://www1.racgp.org.au/ajgp/2020/august/smoking-cessation-1
