Choose a small starting circle
You do not have to announce your quit attempt to everyone. Start with one or two people you trust and explain why you are making the change. Think about who is easy to reach during the parts of the day you expect to find difficult. Different people can help in different ways, and no single person needs to be available all the time.
Make the request specific
Instead of saying “keep me motivated”, try asking for a short call after work or company on a lunchtime walk. If someone smokes, you might ask them not to offer you cigarettes. Explain which comments you find encouraging and which make you feel watched. Clear requests give people something practical to do.
Include professional support
Family encouragement and professional advice serve different purposes. A health professional can help you discuss quitting options, while a friend can help you keep a new routine going. Australian Quitline is available on 13 7848. Save the contact details you intend to use so they are easy to find when you want a conversation.
Keep checking what helps
Your needs may change as your quit attempt progresses. Let your support people know if you would prefer fewer reminders or a different kind of check-in. Thank them for the actions that work. Support is easier to sustain when it feels like an agreed conversation rather than an ongoing test.
