Husband won't quit and it's killing him - Smoking Cessation Message Board

kens4ever · 09-16-2003, 04:08 PM

My husband of 3 years is 41 years old and has been smoking since he was a teenager. He has tried to quit several times, but has always failed. He is afraid to quit and afraid to fail. My problem is this, the smell is really putting a damper on our relationship, not to mention his constant coughing. When we met he smoked about a pack a day, now he is up to almost 3! Not only is it breaking the bank, it is killing him right before my eyes! I am at a loss as to what to do and how to deal with it personally. It's very hard to be encouraging or to overlook it because it is such a part of his life. It's hard to be intimate with him because the smell really bothers me so it's affecting our marriage. I don't smoke by the way, although I have in the past. I hope someone can help me out.

Thanks

smurfyday · 09-17-2003, 09:01 AM

Hi...
I've read your posting and feel for you, but unfotunately the decision to stop smoking has to be made by your husband. He really needs to want to quit smoking and it sounds like he may not. I would talk with him and if it is really affecting your marriage it may be a good idea to attend counseling. This may also help him decide to quit once and for all. Unfortunately, I can understand because I have smoked for many, many years and until now never really desired to stop smoking (except once!).
I wish both you and your husband good luck.