Help your teen make a plan

While many teens who smoke think they can stop anytime, research shows this isn't usually true. Teens can become addicted after smoking as few as five packs of cigarettes.

When you talk to your teen about stopping smoking, ask if any of his or her friends have tried to stop smoking. Consider why they were — or weren't — successful. Ask your teen which stop-smoking strategies he or she thinks might work best. Offer your own suggestions as well:

• Know your reasons. Ask your teen to think about why he or she wants to stop smoking. The list can help your teen stay motivated when temptation arises.
• Set a quit date. Help your teen choose a date to stop smoking.
• Avoid temptation. Encourage your teen to avoid people, places and activities that he or she links with smoking.
• Be prepared for cravings. Remind your teen that if he or she can hold out long enough — usually just a few minutes — the nicotine craving will pass. Suggest taking a few deep breaths or taking a walk. Offer sugarless gum, hard candy, celery or carrot sticks to keep his or her mouth busy.
• Consider stop-smoking products. Although nicotine replacement products — such as nicotine gums, patches, inhalers or nasal sprays — weren't designed for teens, they might be helpful in some cases. Ask your teen's doctor about the options.
• Seek support. A tobacco-cessation specialist can give your teen the tools and support he or she needs to stop smoking. Some local organizations offer stop-smoking groups for teens. Web-based programs can support your teen whenever he or she needs it.

If your teen slips, remain supportive. Congratulate your teen on the progress he or she has made, and encourage your teen not to give up. Help your teen identify what went wrong and what to do differently next time.

Above all, celebrate your teen's success. You might offer a favorite meal for a smoke-free day, a new shirt for a smoke-free week or a party with nonsmoking friends for a smoke-free month. Rewards and positive reinforcement can help your teen maintain the motivation to stop smoking for good.