For some people, smoking or vaping is a social activity, but once you've quit there are other ways to catch up with mates.
If you’re thinking of quitting, it’s only natural to think about how it could impact your friendships.
Some of your mates may want to quit with you. On the other hand, your friends may not want you to quit.
Before you quit, it's best to decide on what you will say to your friends who smoke or vape. Tell them that you’ve quit smoking and/or vaping, and politely ask them not to offer you cigarettes or vapes.
In the first few weeks of quitting, try to limit the time you spend with people who smoke or vape. Instead of seeing those friends perhaps give them a call instead.
If you can't avoid catching up with people who smoke or vape, make sure you're prepared. Bring something along to keep your hands busy. Sip water. Take a walk around the block if it's getting tough.
Watch Declan's story and see how he learnt to politely say no to his friends who offered him cigarettes – and how he's been staying quit!
Quitline can help
Quitline counsellors can chat with you about how you might deal with friends who smoke or vape, and help you make a plan. They offer you free advice and support to help you stop smoking and/or vaping. They will work with you to help you build and keep up your motivation, create a plan that works for you, and guide and encourage you along the way. Quitline counsellors can also support you if you are using vapes to stop smoking.
There are many ways to get in touch with Quitline 13 7848. Hit the button below for more detail:
Ways to get in touch