Son addicted to cigarettes

Thank you for reaching out and sharing your worries about your son’s smoking habit. It’s clear that you care deeply about his well-being, and it’s completely natural to feel anxious and unsure about how to help him through this challenge. Addressing smoking addiction in teenagers is no easy task, and you’re already taking a crucial step by looking  for advice and support.

 

It’s important to remember that smoking, particularly in teenagers, often stems from a variety of factors, including peer pressure, stress, or even a way to assert independence. Understanding the root causes of his smoking can help you approach the situation with empathy and patience. You might find it helpful to have an open and honest conversation with your son about why he started smoking and how he feels about it. This can pave the way for finding solutions together.

 

Another step could involve your General Practitioner (GP). They can provide medical advice tailored to your son’s specific needs and may suggest options such as nicotine replacement therapy or other supportive measures. Your GP can also help assess if there are any underlying issues contributing to his smoking, such as anxiety or depression, which might need to be addressed simultaneously.

 

Your son doesn’t have to go through this alone, and neither do you. Encourage him to reach out to Childline, a service that offers confidential, non-judgmental support for young people. Childline is available 24/7, and your son can contact them for free at 1800 66 66 66, or by Messenger at www.Childline.ie. It’s a safe space where he can talk openly about his struggles, explore his options, and receive guidance from trained facilitators The anonymity and confidentiality of the service can help him feel more comfortable seeking help.

 

Let your son know that there is no shame in asking for support. Many young people find it difficult to quit smoking, but with the right resources and encouragement, it is entirely possible. Here is the link to the HSE website regarding how to quit smoking www2.hse.ie/living-well/quit-smoking/get-help-to-quit/.

 

Lastly, if you would like to talk more about this, our Support Line is available Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm at 01 5224300. You can also reach us via email at [email protected]. We’re here to support you in finding the best way forward for both you and your son during this challenging time.

 

Warm regards,

Robyn