How Can I Help My Teen Quit Smoking for Good?

How Can Parents Help Teens Quit Smoking?

It's hard to quit smoking. And it’s even tougher to quit abruptly (go "cold turkey"). Nicotine is addicting. It increases the heart rate, breathing rate, and blood pressure, and makes people feel more alert and in a good mood.

But after smoking for a while, people start to depend on nicotine to feel good. If they don’t smoke, they become irritable or anxious or just don’t feel good. This is called nicotine withdrawal. They crave more cigarettes to perk up again. Some experts think the nicotine in tobacco is as addictive as cocaine or heroin.

Someone who's trying to quit smoking may show signs of withdrawal. Some people need to stop smoking over time and use nicotine replacement products such as nicotine gum or the nicotine patch to avoid unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Nicotine even comes in lozenge, nasal spray, and inhaler forms, so those trying to kick the habit can try different types. They'll need to speak to their doctor about the spray and inhaler, though, because these need a prescription.

A few weeks after someone quits smoking, they should notice that the physical symptoms ease. But smoking also creates emotional dependence, which needs to be considered too. Tools ex-smokers can use to deal with the emotional effects of quitting can include counseling, support groups, self-help materials, and even mobile apps. More information and support is available online at:

• Smoking Quitline
• Quit Tobacco‎
• Smokefree.gov

What Else Should I Know?

Wanting to quit smoking is the most important step in the process. Keep encouraging your teen, but know that the decision to quit is theirs. Even if they smoke again, stay supportive.