"My boyfriend won't stop smoking!"

You Said:
"My boyfriend is one of the greatest guys I know. My only problem with him is that he smokes. I told him that I could help him quit, but he thinks that because I have never smoked or done drugs, I don't know what he's going through. The thing is, I do know what he's going through. My grandfather and aunt both died from smoking, and my Dad has serious heart problems because of it. How can I let him know that I can help?"

We Say:
You may be able to emotionally support your boyfriend with encouragement and optimism, but you can't literally help him quit. Sure, you can try explaining your family's history with smoke addiction and the impact it's had on your life. Tell him that while you may not have smoked yourself (you go, girl!), you are ultimately affected by it because second-hand smoke kills! If he decides to give it a go, no matter which method he uses -- whether it be cold turkey, the patch or chewing gum-- the decision to do so must be his, or else he won't have the will to do it.

Keep on him, but DON'T pester him about it. If you do, he'll toss back a remark like, "Then why are you with me?" which will undoubtedly throw you into hysterics. Don't be his mother, his guidance counselor, or his therapist -- be his girlfriend. Show him that you'll be there for him no matter what. As a matter of fact, try offering him some incentives, or make the quitting process a game. Like, say, after one day of not smoking, you'll give him a kiss on the cheek. After three days: on the lips. After a week: a back massage. Two weeks: dinner and a movie. With you as the prize, he's likely to be smoke-free in no time! Good luck.

"My BFF turned into a jerk before graduation."