Get a Little Heart Help from Your Friends

Just because you aren’t under the same roof or visiting with your loved ones, doesn’t mean you can’t rely on them to support you through your quit journey. A virtual check-in system allows you to use your personal social network, as well as professional guidance, to keep you committed to your quit during American Heart Month and beyond.

But how do you go about creating a virtual check-in system? Start by writing a short list of people that you would feel comfortable checking in with every Monday. These can be friends, family members, or even colleagues or peers. If you start your week by reflecting on your quit progress with a friend, acquaintance, or a professional, it will be easy to transform it into a regular heart healthy routine.

We’ve developed a Monday check-in handout that you can use to discuss your weekly progress with your support system. Still don’t know who to reach out to? Here are some ideas to get you started:

Family & Friends – Your friends and family want to help; it could be time to give them the opportunity. Reach out and ask them.

Buddy System – Studies show some people might have better success if they quit with a buddy.

Online Support – If you can’t find someone in your more immediate circles, try visiting sites like Become an Ex,  Smokefree, or another online chat group. At the very least, you’ll find a lively chat to join.

Professional Support – 1-800-QUIT-NOW. Help is just a phone call away with a state quitline.  Toll-free quitlines put you in touch with a trained coach in your state who can provide immediate and free support and advice.

Experts say having a network to tap into on challenging days is more effective than going it alone. Find Quit & Stay Quit Monday on Facebook, Twitter,  Pinterest, or Instagram for more ideas, suggestions, support, and tips to quit smoking.

Interested in other heart healthy tips? Explore our series of heart health resources here?