Quit Smoking Together: How a Buddy Boosts Your Success by 6x!

If you’re one of the millions of people who want to quit smoking, you’re in good company – 76% of the 46 million American smokers would like to kick the habit. It’s no secret that smoking leads to deadly diseases like cancer and heart disease, but quitting is a monumental task. What’s more, research indicates that 95% of smokers who try to quit without any support will fail. But now, a new study by researchers at Imperial College London, UK, has discovered one key to smoking cessation success that can increase your chances of quitting by almost six times – and that’s partnering up.

Enlist your partner’s support

This study, presented at EuroPrevent 2019, a scientific congress of the European Society of Cardiology, investigated how married or cohabiting partners might influence smoking cessation. The researchers enrolled 222 current smokers who were either at high risk of cardiovascular disease or had suffered a heart attack. The partners of these smokers were also enlisted for help. Some of the partners were current smokers, while others had quit or never smoked.

The couples attended a program to help them quit smoking. Their smoking habits were monitored, and they were offered support through nicotine patches, gum, or a prescription drug. The researchers found that those who had a partner to help them through the process were a staggering 5.83 times more likely to succeed at quitting than those who attempted it alone. This data clearly shows the importance of teamwork when quitting smoking.

Combat loneliness to quit for good

“Quitting smoking can be a lonely endeavor,” says study author Magda Lampridou of Imperial College London, UK. “People feel left out when they skip the smoke break at work or avoid social occasions. On top of that, there are nicotine withdrawal symptoms. Partners can distract each other from the cravings by going for a walk or to the cinema and encouraging replacement activities like eating healthy food or meditating when alone. Active support works best, rather than nagging.”

Lampridou also emphasizes the need for incorporating couples into smoking cessation interventions to achieve a smoke-free home.

Setting a quit date

If you’re ready to give up smoking for good, consider joining a smoking cessation program and seeking the support of your spouse or partner. Their help throughout this challenging process can make a significant difference in whether or not you successfully quit. Start by setting a quit date together and work towards a healthier, smoke-free life.

Remember, quitting smoking is never easy, but having a partner who understands your needs and provides encouragement and support will improve your chances of success. Together, you can overcome the challenges of kicking the habit and enjoy the benefits of a healthier lifestyle.

Additional resources for quitting smoking

American Cancer Society: Offers a wealth of resources for quitting smoking, including a quitline, mobile app, and smoke-free community support groups. Visit their website for more information.
Smokefree.gov: A government-based resource that provides free tools, tips, and support for smokers who want to quit. Check out their website for more help.
National Cancer Institute’s Quitline: A free telephone support service that can help you quit smoking. Call 1-877-44U-QUIT (1-877-448-7848) or connect online.
American Lung Association: Offers a Freedom From Smoking program that includes online, group, and one-on-one support for quitting smoking. Explore their services here.