Who are Helpers?
Helpers are trained, motivated persons ready to offer brief tobacco interventions to friends, family, and community.
Research shows that many persons are concerned about someone else’s tobacco use and want to help them quit. Helpers are often family members or friends of tobacco users. They may be volunteers or professionals in healthcare, human services or community organizations. Many Helpers are former smokers, using their hard won experience to help others quit.
What do we know about Helpers?
Our research indicates:
- 1. Most Helpers apply their training, even minimal training produces results.
- 2. Helpers routinely assess readiness to quit and commonly offer advice, assistance and follow up.
- 3. Helpers regularly make referrals to tobacco cessation services and discuss nicotine replacement.
Our qualitative research indicates that:
- 1. Helpers want training to feel confident in their efforts.
- 2. Helpers want user-friendly handouts and other materials to get conversations about quitting started and ease social tensions.
- 3. Helpers want opportunities to share experiences with other Helpers.
- 4. Helpers are enthusiastic about passing on knowledge and skills to others.