Which component is a core part of relapse prevention planning for smoking cessation?

• A. Identify triggers, plan coping strategies for high-risk situations, and maintain social support.
• B. Avoid all social support to prevent dependence on others.
• C. Rely exclusively on nicotine replacement therapy without behavioral strategies.
• D. Wait until relapse occurs and then revisit plan.

Answer: (B)

Relapse prevention planning works best when it actively prepares you to handle the situations that tend to trigger smoking. By identifying triggers—such as stress, certain social environments, or after meals—you can anticipate urges and choose in-the-m moment coping strategies, like delaying, using distraction, or substituting with a healthier behavior. Keeping social support in place provides encouragement, accountability, and practical help, which strengthens your resolve during cravings. Relying only on nicotine replacement or other medications without these behavioral strategies misses a crucial piece of staying abstinent, and waiting to revisit the plan after a relapse is too reactive and less effective than proactive preparation.