It is very important in talking to a friend or loved one about his nicotine addiction that you affirm to him that he is a person you care about even though you don't like the addiction. As mentioned before, nicotine addiction has some side effects that are unpleasant to those around the addict — spitting, bad breath, yellowed fingers and fingernails, discolored teeth, aging skin, smoke odor that clings to his clothes — as well as the mess made by ashes and cigarette butts.

It would be easy to focus on these outward signs, but this leads to shame and self-consciousness rather than recovery. In light of the serious health risks to someone you care about, these issues are minimal. That doesn't mean that you can't discuss how the addict's behaviors affects others. You should be honest and firm, but caring and genuinely concerned for the addicted person.

Encourage your friend or loved one to seek help from a physician knowledgeable in treating nicotine addiction. You may provide him with information to read regarding current treatments that are available. When eating out or socializing, take him to nonsmoking restaurants and clubs. The smell of others smoking may trigger cravings. This also helps to normalize a nonsmoking lifestyle. Allow your friend or loved one to talk about her problem without condemnation.

There are always strong feelings connected with stopping addictions that need a healthy outlet.