6 Ways to Help a Friend Stop Vaping

Do you have a friend or loved one in your life who currently uses e-cigarettes but wants to quit? Here are a few important tips that you can use to help them.

Create a Plan

•Encourage them to set a date to quit. They should pick a day in the next month – picking a date too far away gives them timeto change their mind.

•Be sure to connect with them leading up to and on the date to show your support.

Understand

•Most users need to practice quitting before they master it. One of the best things you can do is encourage them. Tell yourfriend or loved one that you believe in their ability to succeed. 

Praise

•Trying to quit a habit is very difficult, so shower them with praise, especially in the first few days. Tell them how proud you areof their mission to quit. 

Be Present

•The journey of quitting is different for everyone. Some people prefer to be alone while others want to be surrounded by familyand friends to keep their mind off smoking. Make yourself available to your friend or loved one whether they want you by theirside or not. 

Check In

•Regular calls, texts or visits will show your friend or loved one how much you care. Ask them how they feel, or if there’sanything you can help them with. This can be something as simple as going out to lunch or going on a walk around theneighborhood. 

Be There for the Long Haul

•The first 7-10 days will be the toughest; the best thing you can do is be empathetic. 

•Users may encounter an urge to vape months or even years after they quit. Remind your friend or loved one that such urgeswill occur less often over time, and they’ll eventually stop entirely. 

Sources: Adapted from Cancer.org and Cdc.gov.