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Aproximately two thirds of smokers are interested in quitting.¹ Yet only 7 percent of smokers are successful,¹ and many smokers try to quit several times before they’re able to maintain prolonged abstinence.² It’s important to remember, and to remind your patients, that relapse is a normal and often times an unavoidable part of the process for a lifelong behavior change like quitting smoking. If relapse occurs, it does not represent failure.³

Tobacco/nicotine dependence should be treated with patience, understanding, and a realistic expectations. Keep in mind that patients can be hesitant to admit they’ve relapsed—so it’s always important to ask about their cessation progress. This video shows an example of a planned phone conversation between a doctor and patient who had recently relapsed. Watch for tips and suggestions for empathetic counseling.