Smoking cessation support method

Abstract

To provide a smoking cessation support method for supporting smoking cessation of smokers, and a smoking cessation support system.SOLUTION: A smoking cessation support method for clarifying a structure of nicotine dependence for inhibiting achievement of smoking cessation, into three elements of physical dependence, psychological dependence and conditioned reflex, and executing smoking cessation support in this order, includes: a first step of presenting first information; a first determination step of determining whether or not the physical dependence has been overcome after the lapse of a first prescribed period from the presentation of the first information, and when the physical dependence has been overcome, proceeding to a second smoking cessation support for the psychological dependence; a second step of presenting second information; a second determination step of determining whether or not the psychological dependence has been overcome after the lapse of a second prescribed period from the presentation of the second information and when the psychological dependence has been overcome, proceeding to a third smoking cessation support for the conditioned reflex; and a third step of presenting third information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a smoking cessation assistance method for assisting smokers to quit smoking. [Background technology]

[0002] Treatment of nicotine addiction is now covered by health insurance, and literature has been published that explains the necessary basic knowledge, implementation methods, and points to note when providing smoking cessation guidance to people who wish to quit smoking (Non-Patent Document 1). The smoking cessation support manual in Non-Patent Document 1 is widely used not only for treatment of nicotine addiction covered by health insurance, but also for non-covered outpatient treatment and smoking cessation guidance in the workplace. As mentioned above, this manual is intended for "people who wish to quit smoking," and it motivates people to quit smoking by providing information about the disadvantages of smoking (the negative effects that smoking has on health) and the advantages of quitting smoking, leading to smoking cessation. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Non-Patent Document 1] Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, Health Bureau, Health Section, "Smoking Cessation Support Manual (Second Edition) Revised and Enlarged Edition", [online], May 31, 2018, Internet<https: / / www.mhlw.go.jp / topics / tobacco / kin-en-sien / manual2 / addition.html> Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Although many smokers are already aware of the disadvantages, they continue to smoke because they believe that the benefits of smoking outweigh the disadvantages. Therefore, no matter how much the disadvantages of smoking are explained to them, it is difficult to encourage them to quit smoking.

[0005] The purpose of the present disclosure, made in consideration of such circumstances, is to provide a smoking cessation support method that targets not only smokers who wish to quit smoking but also smokers who do not actively wish to quit smoking, and supports smokers in quitting smoking without excessively highlighting the disadvantages of smoking. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] (1) A smoking cessation support method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is a smoking cessation support method that clarifies the structure of nicotine dependence, which inhibits smoking cessation achievement, into three elements: physical dependence, psychological dependence, and conditioned reflex, and provides smoking cessation support in this order, In the first smoking cessation support for physical dependence, a first step is to present first information suggesting that the true nature of the benefit of smoking is simply the elimination of withdrawal symptoms caused by a decrease in nicotine concentration in the blood by ingesting nicotine through smoking; a first determination step of determining whether or not the physical dependence has been overcome after a first predetermined period has elapsed since the presentation of the first information, and proceeding to a second smoking cessation support for the psychological dependence if the physical dependence has been overcome; a second step of presenting second information in the second smoking cessation support that suggests that the craving to smoke felt when physical dependence is overcome is psychological dependence, and that psychological dependence arises from the mistaken belief that the relief of withdrawal symptoms due to nicotine intake is the benefit of smoking, and that smoking relieves psychological pain; a second determination step of determining whether or not the psychological dependence has been overcome after a second predetermined period has elapsed since the presentation of the second information, and proceeding to a third smoking cessation support for the conditioned reflex if the psychological dependence has been overcome; a third step of presenting third information in the third smoking cessation support indicating that the conditioned reflex is an impediment to smoking cessation different from the physical dependence and the psychological dependence, and that the conditioned reflex alone does not lead to smoking; Includes.

[0007] (2) A smoking cessation support method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is a method according to (1), Before the first smoking cessation support begins, The method is characterized by presenting introductory information indicating the existence of the physical dependence, the psychological dependence, and the conditioned reflex as dependencies that hinder the achievement of smoking cessation, and recommending the use of effective smoking cessation aids as an alternative to smoking as a means of overcoming the physical dependence. Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a smoking cessation support method can be provided that targets not only smokers who wish to quit smoking but also smokers who do not actively wish to quit smoking, and supports smokers in quitting smoking without excessively highlighting the disadvantages of smoking. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a terminal device. [Diagram 3] 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an information processing device; [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a terminal device. [Diagram 5] 1 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of an information processing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of information relating to factors impeding smoking cessation. [Figure 7] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of recommended information for use of smoking cessation aids. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 illustrates an example of a confirmation screen. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of an input screen. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an answer screen. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of second information. [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an answer screen. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an answer screen. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] Hereinafter, a smoking cessation support system 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0011] In each drawing, the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals. In the description of this embodiment, the description of the same or corresponding parts will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0012] The outline and configuration of a smoking cessation support system 1 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0013] 1, the smoking cessation support system 1 according to the present embodiment includes a terminal device 10, an information processing device 20, and a terminal device 30. The terminal device 10, the information processing device 20, and the terminal device 30 are communicatively connected to a network including, for example, a mobile communication network and the Internet.

[0014] The terminal device 10 is any device used by an administrator on the organizer's side who provides smoking cessation support. For example, general-purpose electronic devices such as smartphones, tablet terminals, and laptop computers, or dedicated electronic devices can be used as the terminal device 10. Note that while FIG. 1 shows an example in which the smoking cessation support system 1 is equipped with one terminal device 10, this is not limited to this. The smoking cessation support system 1 may be equipped with two or more terminal devices 10. Using the terminal device 10, the administrator can view the progress of smoking cessation support for a user (hereinafter simply referred to as a user) who receives smoking cessation support, and can store various data to be provided to the user in a server.

[0015] The information processing device 20 is, for example, a server device installed in a data center or the like. For example, the information processing device 20 is a server belonging to a cloud computing system or other computing system. The information processing device 20 can communicate with the terminal device 10 and the terminal device 30 via a network. Note that FIG. 1 shows an example in which the smoking cessation support system 1 includes one information processing device 20, but this is not limited to this. The smoking cessation support system 1 may include two or more information processing devices 20. The information processing device 20 stores, for example, a smoking cessation support program and data (user information, images and videos used for smoking cessation support, etc.) for providing smoking cessation support to a user. The smoking cessation support program is a program used to provide appropriate support according to the user's progress when providing smoking cessation support to the user, and specific support will be described later.

[0016] The terminal device 30 is any device used by a user. For example, a general-purpose electronic device such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a notebook computer, or a dedicated electronic device, can be adopted as the terminal device 30. For example, when a user participates as a participant in a lecture or seminar using the smoking cessation support system 1, the terminal device 30 may be distributed to each participant. Alternatively, a device such as a smartphone owned by each user may function as the terminal device 30. Although two terminal devices 30 are illustrated as an example of the smoking cessation support system 1 in FIG. 1, this is not limited to this. The smoking cessation support system 1 may include one terminal device, or may include three or more terminal devices 30. The administrator and the user may use the same device, and the terminal device 10 and the terminal device 30 may be the same device shared by the administrator and the user.

[0017] First, an outline of this embodiment will be described, and details will be described later. In the smoking cessation support method according to this embodiment, the structure of nicotine dependence that inhibits smoking cessation is clarified into three elements, namely, physical dependence, psychological dependence, and conditioned reflex, and smoking cessation support related to each element is implemented in this order. Hereinafter, smoking cessation support related to physical dependence is also referred to as first smoking cessation support. In addition, smoking cessation support related to psychological dependence is also referred to as second smoking cessation support. In addition, smoking cessation support related to conditioned reflex is also referred to as third smoking cessation support.

[0018] In this smoking cessation support method, the first information is presented, which suggests that the true merit of smoking is merely resolving withdrawal symptoms caused by a decrease in nicotine concentration in the blood by ingesting nicotine through smoking (first step). Next, it is determined whether or not physical dependence has been overcome after a first predetermined period has elapsed since the date of implementation of the first smoking cessation support, and if physical dependence has been overcome, the method proceeds to a second smoking cessation support for psychological dependence (first determination step). In the second smoking cessation support, second information is presented, which suggests that the craving for smoking felt in a state in which physical dependence has been overcome is psychological dependence, and that psychological dependence is caused by the mistaken belief that the elimination of withdrawal symptoms by ingesting nicotine is the benefit of smoking, and that smoking relieves psychological pain such as stress (second step). After a second predetermined period of time has elapsed since the date of implementation of the second smoking cessation support, it is judged whether or not the psychological dependence has been overcome, and if the psychological dependence has been overcome, the method proceeds to a third smoking cessation support for the conditioned reflex (second judgment step). In the third smoking cessation support, a third piece of information is presented indicating that the conditioned reflex is an impediment to achieving smoking cessation that differs from physical dependence and psychological dependence, and that the conditioned reflex alone does not lead to smoking (third step). When starting to quit smoking, various unpleasant sensations occur and one is attacked by the desire to smoke, but this smoking cessation support method structures these and tackles them one by one in the order in which they are most strongly expressed, which has the effect of increasing the success rate of smoking cessation.

[0019] In this way, in this embodiment, the smoking cessation of a smoker is supported stepwise through the above-mentioned multiple steps. As described above, the first information is information suggesting that the essence of the merit of smoking is merely resolving the withdrawal symptoms caused by the decrease in blood nicotine concentration by ingesting nicotine through smoking, and the essence of the merit of smoking is merely resolving the withdrawal symptoms caused by the decrease in blood nicotine concentration by ingesting nicotine through smoking, and the second information is information suggesting that the desire to smoke felt in a state where physical dependence has been overcome is psychological dependence, and that psychological dependence is caused by the mistaken belief that the elimination of withdrawal symptoms caused by nicotine is the benefit of smoking, and that smoking relieves psychological pain such as stress. In other words, in the smoking cessation support method according to this embodiment, the disadvantages of smoking are not excessively promoted. Therefore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to provide a smoking cessation support method and a smoking cessation support system that support smokers to quit smoking without excessively promoting the disadvantages of smoking, while targeting smokers who do not actively want to quit smoking as well as smokers who wish to quit smoking.

[0020] Next, each component of the smoking cessation support system 1 will be described in detail.

[0021] (Configuration of terminal device 10) As shown in FIG. 2, the terminal device 10 includes a control unit 11, a storage unit 12, a communication unit 13, an input unit 14, and an output unit 15.

[0022] The control unit 11 includes at least one processor, at least one dedicated circuit, or a combination of these. The processor is a general-purpose processor such as a central processing unit (CPU) or a graphics processing unit (GPU), or a dedicated processor specialized for a specific process. The dedicated circuit is, for example, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) or an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). The control unit 11 executes processes related to the operation of the terminal device 10 while controlling each part of the terminal device 10.

[0023] The storage unit 12 includes at least one semiconductor memory, at least one magnetic memory, at least one optical memory, or a combination of at least two of these. The semiconductor memory is, for example, a random access memory (RAM) or a read only memory (ROM). The RAM is, for example, a static random access memory (SRAM) or a dynamic random access memory (DRAM). The ROM is, for example, an electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM). The storage unit 12 functions as, for example, a main storage device, an auxiliary storage device, or a cache memory. The storage unit 12 stores data used in the operation of the terminal device 10 and data obtained by the operation of the terminal device 10.

[0024] The communication unit 13 includes at least one external communication interface. The communication interface may be either a wired communication interface or a wireless communication interface. In the case of wired communication, the communication interface is, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network) interface or a USB (Universal Serial Bus). In the case of wireless communication, the communication interface is, for example, an interface compatible with mobile communication standards such as LTE (Long Term Evolution), 4G (4th generation), or 5G (5th generation), or an interface compatible with short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark). The communication unit 13 receives data used in the operation of the terminal device 10, and transmits data obtained by the operation of the terminal device 10.

[0025] The input unit 14 includes at least one input interface. The input interface is, for example, a physical key, a capacitive key, a pointing device, or a touch screen integrally provided with a display. The input interface may also be, for example, a microphone that accepts voice input, or a camera that accepts gesture input. The input unit 14 accepts an operation to input data used in the operation of the terminal device 10. The input unit 14 may be connected to the terminal device 10 as an external input device instead of being provided in the terminal device 10. As a connection method, any method such as USB (Universal Serial Bus), HDMI (registered trademark) (High-Definition Multimedia Interface), or Bluetooth (registered trademark) may be used.

[0026] The output unit 15 includes at least one output interface. The output interface is, for example, a display that outputs information as a video, or a speaker that outputs information as a sound. The display is, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) or an organic EL (electro luminescence) display. The output unit 15 displays and outputs data obtained by the operation of the terminal device 10. The output unit 15 may be connected to the terminal device 10 as an external output device instead of being provided in the terminal device 10. As a connection method, any method such as USB, HDMI (registered trademark), or Bluetooth (registered trademark) can be used.

[0027] The functions of the terminal device 10 are realized by executing a program according to this embodiment on a processor corresponding to the terminal device 10. That is, the functions of the terminal device 10 are realized by software. The program causes a computer to execute the operations of the terminal device 10, thereby causing the computer to function as the terminal device 10. That is, the computer functions as the terminal device 10 by executing the operations of the terminal device 10 in accordance with the program.

[0028] In this embodiment, the computer temporarily stores, for example, a program recorded on a portable recording medium or a program transmitted from a server in a main storage device. Then, the computer reads the program stored in the main storage device with a processor, and executes processing according to the read program with the processor. The computer may read the program directly from the portable recording medium and execute processing according to the program. The computer may execute processing according to the received program each time it receives a program from an external server. The external server may not transmit a program to the computer, but may execute processing by a so-called ASP (application service provider) type service that realizes functions only by execution instructions and result acquisition. Programs include information used for processing by an electronic computer that is equivalent to a program. For example, data that is not a direct instruction to a computer but has a nature that specifies computer processing corresponds to "something equivalent to a program."

[0029] In this embodiment, the program can be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium. The computer-readable recording medium includes a non-transitory computer-readable medium, such as a magnetic recording device, an optical disc, a magneto-optical recording medium, or a semiconductor memory. The program is distributed, for example, by selling, transferring, or lending a portable recording medium such as a DVD (digital versatile disc) or a CD-ROM (compact disc read only memory) on which the program is recorded. The program may also be distributed by storing the program in the storage of an external server and transmitting the program from the external server to another computer. The program may also be provided as a program product.

[0030] A part or all of the functions of the terminal device 10 may be realized by a dedicated circuit equivalent to the control unit 11. In other words, a part or all of the functions of the terminal device 10 may be realized by hardware.

[0031] (Configuration of information processing device 20)

[0032] As shown in FIG. 3, the information processing device 20 includes a control unit 21, a storage unit 22, and a communication unit .

[0033] The control unit 21 includes at least one processor, at least one dedicated circuit, or a combination of these. The processor is a general-purpose processor such as a CPU or a GPU, or a dedicated processor specialized for a specific process. The dedicated circuit is, for example, an FPGA or an ASIC. The control unit 21 executes processes related to the operation of the information processing device 20 while controlling each unit of the information processing device 20.

[0034] The storage unit 22 includes at least one semiconductor memory, at least one magnetic memory, at least one optical memory, or a combination of at least two of these. The semiconductor memory is, for example, a RAM or a ROM. The RAM is, for example, an SRAM or a DRAM. The ROM is, for example, an EEPROM. The storage unit 22 functions as, for example, a main storage device, an auxiliary storage device, or a cache memory. The storage unit 22 stores data used in the operation of the information processing device 20 and data obtained by the operation of the information processing device 20.

[0035] The communication unit 23 includes at least one external communication interface. The communication interface may be either a wired communication interface or a wireless communication interface. In the case of wired communication, the communication interface is, for example, a LAN interface or a USB. In the case of wireless communication, the communication interface is, for example, an interface compatible with a mobile communication standard such as LTE, 4G, or 5G, or an interface compatible with short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark). The communication unit 23 receives data used in the operation of the information processing device 20, and transmits data obtained by the operation of the information processing device 20.

[0036] The functions of the information processing device 20 are realized by executing a program according to this embodiment in a processor corresponding to the control unit 21. That is, the functions of the information processing device 20 are realized by software. The program causes a computer to execute the operations of the information processing device 20, thereby causing the computer to function as the information processing device 20. That is, the computer functions as the information processing device 20 by executing the operations of the information processing device 20 in accordance with the program.

[0037] A part or all of the functions of the information processing device 20 may be realized by a dedicated circuit corresponding to the control unit 21. In other words, a part or all of the functions of the information processing device 20 may be realized by hardware.

[0038] (Configuration of terminal device 30) As shown in FIG. 4, the terminal device 30 includes a control unit 31, a storage unit 32, a communication unit 33, an input unit 34, and an output unit 35.

[0039] The control unit 31 includes at least one processor, at least one dedicated circuit, or a combination of these. The processor is a general-purpose processor such as a central processing unit (CPU) or a graphics processing unit (GPU), or a dedicated processor specialized for a specific process. The dedicated circuit is, for example, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) or an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). The control unit 31 executes processes related to the operation of the terminal device 30 while controlling each part of the terminal device 30.

[0040] The storage unit 32 includes at least one semiconductor memory, at least one magnetic memory, at least one optical memory, or a combination of at least two of these. The semiconductor memory is, for example, a random access memory (RAM) or a read only memory (ROM). The RAM is, for example, a static random access memory (SRAM) or a dynamic random access memory (DRAM). The ROM is, for example, an electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM). The storage unit 32 functions as, for example, a main storage device, an auxiliary storage device, or a cache memory. The storage unit 32 stores data used in the operation of the terminal device 30 and data obtained by the operation of the terminal device 30.

[0041] The communication unit 33 includes at least one external communication interface. The communication interface may be either a wired communication interface or a wireless communication interface. In the case of wired communication, the communication interface is, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network) interface or a USB (Universal Serial Bus). In the case of wireless communication, the communication interface is, for example, an interface compatible with mobile communication standards such as LTE (Long Term Evolution), 4G (4th generation), or 5G (5th generation), or an interface compatible with short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark). The communication unit 33 receives data used in the operation of the terminal device 30, and transmits data obtained by the operation of the terminal device 30.

[0042] The input unit 34 includes at least one input interface. The input interface is, for example, a physical key, a capacitive key, a pointing device, or a touch screen integrally provided with a display. The input interface may also be, for example, a microphone that accepts voice input, or a camera that accepts gesture input. The input unit 34 accepts an operation to input data used for the operation of the terminal device 30. The input unit 34 may be connected to the terminal device 30 as an external input device instead of being provided in the terminal device 30. As a connection method, any method such as USB (Universal Serial Bus), HDMI (registered trademark) (High-Definition Multimedia Interface), or Bluetooth (registered trademark) can be used.

[0043] The output unit 35 includes at least one output interface. The output interface is, for example, a display that outputs information as a video, or a speaker that outputs information as a sound. The display is, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) or an organic EL (electro luminescence) display. The output unit 35 displays and outputs data obtained by the operation of the terminal device 30. The output unit 35 may be connected to the terminal device 30 as an external output device instead of being provided in the terminal device 30. As a connection method, any method such as USB, HDMI (registered trademark), or Bluetooth (registered trademark) can be used.

[0044] The functions of the terminal device 30 are realized by executing a program according to this embodiment on a processor corresponding to the terminal device 30. That is, the functions of the terminal device 30 are realized by software. The program causes a computer to execute the operations of the terminal device 30, thereby causing the computer to function as the terminal device 30. That is, the computer functions as the terminal device 30 by executing the operations of the terminal device 30 in accordance with the program.

[0045] A part or all of the functions of the terminal device 30 may be realized by a dedicated circuit equivalent to the control unit 31. In other words, a part or all of the functions of the terminal device 30 may be realized by hardware.

[0046] (Operation of Smoking Cessation Support System 1) The operation of the smoking cessation support system 1 according to the present embodiment will be described below. In order to use the system according to the present embodiment, for example, an application for using the smoking cessation support system 1 (hereinafter, also referred to as a smoking cessation support app) may be installed in the terminal device 30. In this case, the terminal device 30 allows the user to access the information processing device 20 via the smoking cessation support app. Alternatively, the terminal device 30 may not have the smoking cessation support app installed. In this case, the terminal device 30 allows the user to access the system via a web browser using a predetermined URL. The user starts the smoking cessation support app to receive smoking cessation support. Or, the user accesses a predetermined URL for receiving smoking cessation support. If this is the first time that the system is used for smoking cessation support, user registration is required. In the user registration, the information processing device 20 allows the user to register the user's attribute information. The attribute information includes, for example, the user's name, age, smoking history, intention to quit smoking, smoking cessation challenge history, nicotine dependence, purpose of smoking, and answers to a questionnaire about the user's own thoughts on the merits of smoking. When the attribute information is registered, the information processing device 20 issues a user ID and a password. The user receives the user ID and password issued by the terminal device 30, and is able to start smoking cessation support by the smoking cessation support system 1 using the user ID and password.

[0047] Here, the user who receives the smoking cessation support according to this embodiment may not only be someone who wishes to quit smoking, but also someone who has no intention of quitting smoking at this point. Those who have no intention of quitting smoking at this point include, for example, those who are forced to receive smoking cessation support in response to a recommendation from another person. The user may also be the person who supports the person who supports the person who is quitting smoking. In this case, the smoking cessation supporter and the person supported do not need to be one-to-one, and one smoking cessation supporter can provide support to multiple people supported at the same time by sharing information using a monitor, projector, or online conference tool. In this embodiment, the following explanation will be given taking as an example a case where the user is a user (hereinafter also referred to as user X) who has no intention of actively quitting smoking.

[0048] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of a smoking cessation support method executed by the smoking cessation support system 1 according to this embodiment.

[0049] Step S1: The information processing device 20 presents the introduction information to the user who logs in for the first time. That is, the information processing device 20 presents the introduction information to the user who logs in for the first time before the start of the first smoking cessation support described later. Here, in this specification, the information processing device 20 presents the information includes the information (data such as audio, image, video, etc.) stored in the storage unit 22 of the information processing device 20 being transmitted to the terminal device 30 via the communication unit 23, and the terminal device 30 outputting the information received via the communication unit 33 by the output unit 35. Various methods can be adopted as the mode of outputting the received information by the output unit 35. For example, the terminal device 30 may display and output the received information on a display screen. Alternatively, the terminal device 30 may output the received information by audio from a speaker or the like.

[0050] The introduction information includes information related to smoking cessation impediments (hereinafter, also simply referred to as impediment information). The impediment information is information indicating that physical dependence, psychological dependence, and conditioned reflex exist as dependencies that impede the achievement of smoking cessation. The impediment information may include information such as illustrations. FIG. 6 is an example of impediment information. In order to achieve smoking cessation, it is necessary to accurately recognize the factors that impede smoking cessation and provide appropriate support according to the characteristics, and it is important to make the user understand the impediments. As illustrated in FIG. 6, for example, the information processing device 20 presents information such as illustrations that allow the user, who is a hero, to visually recognize what kind of ghosts exist as ghosts that the user must defeat, by comparing the factors that impede smoking cessation to ghosts (enemies). In other words, the information processing device 20 presents the impediment information illustrated in FIG. 6, and suggests to the user that the user can quit smoking by defeating these three ghosts in order. Also, as illustrated in FIG. 6, by comparing the factors that impede smoking cessation to ghosts (enemies), the user can start quitting smoking without resistance, as if playing a role-playing game. In addition, by presenting the inhibitory factors information shown in Figure 6, users can realize that quitting smoking is not an endless battle, but something that can be overcome by successively conquering the three ghosts that form the dependency structure.

[0051] The introduction information may include information recommending the use of a smoking cessation aid (hereinafter, also referred to simply as use recommendation information). The use recommendation information is information recommending the use of a smoking cessation aid as an effective means of overcoming physical dependence as an alternative to smoking. Smoking cessation aids are used to alleviate physical dependence (i.e., nicotine withdrawal symptoms (toxicity symptoms)) among the inhibiting factors, and to increase the success rate of smoking cessation. Smoking cessation aids that can be used under health insurance include nicotine patches, which are adhesive patches, and varenicline, which is an oral medication. The smoking cessation support method according to this embodiment recommends the use of nicotine patches, which can be purchased by the user himself at pharmacies and drug stores as general medical drugs.

[0052] Here, a user who has no intention of quitting smoking at the moment, such as user X, may refuse to use a nicotine patch or think that it is unnecessary. In addition, many users have anxiety and distrust towards medicines in general. In this embodiment, the use recommendation information may be information that recommends the use of the smoking cessation aid as an alternative to smoking, such as "this is not for quitting smoking but is used as an alternative to smoking" and "the difference from oral smoking is that nicotine is taken through the skin, and everything else is the same". In addition, information such as illustrations may be presented as the use recommendation information. FIG. 7 shows an example of the use recommendation information shown by an illustration. According to the use recommendation information shown in FIG. 7, it is possible to visually show that the currently smoked cigarette is simply inhaled through the skin. The use recommendation information may include information indicating that the smoking cessation aid contains less harmful substances than cigarettes.

[0053] The control unit 21 of the information processing device 20 determines the number of times a user has logged in based on the user's past login history, etc. Here, the memory unit 22 of the information processing device 20 stores usage information such as the user's login history. Based on such usage information, the control unit 21 determines, for example, whether or not the user has logged in for the first time. Note that if the user has not logged in for the first time, the process may skip step S1 and proceed to step S2.

[0054] Step S2: The information processing device 20 registers the start date of the user's smoking cessation. Specifically, the information processing device 20 registers the start date of the user's smoking cessation when the user (here, user X) logs in for the second or subsequent times. In this specification, when the information processing device 20 registers the start date of the user's smoking cessation, it means that data (here, the start date of the user's smoking cessation) is stored in the memory unit 22 of the information processing device 20 based on the user's operational input to the input unit 34 of the terminal device 30. Note that if the user is not logging in for the second or subsequent times, the process may wait for the user's second or subsequent login without proceeding to step S3 or later.

[0055] Various methods can be adopted for the mode of registering the start date of the user's smoking cessation. For example, the information processing device 20 may present information such as a confirmation screen for confirming the intention to start smoking cessation. FIG. 8 is an example of the confirmation screen. If the user selects "Yes" on the confirmation screen, the process may proceed to step S3. In this case, the information processing device 20 requests the user to input the smoking cessation start date. For example, the information processing device 20 may request the user to input the smoking cessation start date by displaying an input screen for inputting the smoking cessation start date on the terminal device 30. FIG. 9 shows an example of the input screen. Note that the date on which the user logs in for the second or subsequent time is input as the smoking cessation start date by default, and the user may be able to change it as appropriate. The smoking cessation start date is used to manage the number of continuous days of smoking cessation. Although there is a large individual difference in how withdrawal symptoms occur after starting smoking cessation and the time required to overcome them, there is a certain tendency depending on the number of days from the smoking cessation start date. Therefore, by managing the smoking cessation start date, smoking cessation support can be provided at the appropriate timing.

[0056] If the user selects "No" on the confirmation screen of FIG. 8, the process may not proceed to step S3 or later. In this case, the information processing device 20 may present smoking cessation initiation support information. For example, the information processing device 20 presents, as smoking cessation initiation support information, information indicating that "it is not necessary to swear not to smoke for the rest of your life, it is okay to do it for a short time" and "if quitting smoking becomes difficult, you can just smoke." Also, for example, when a user logs in for the second or subsequent times, that day may be automatically set as the start date for quitting smoking. Note that even if the user has not yet started quitting smoking, the possibility of leading the user to start quitting smoking can be increased by checking the preparations for starting smoking cessation one by one.

[0057] Step S3: First, of the three constituent factors that hinder smoking cessation, smoking cessation support for physical dependence (first smoking cessation support) is implemented, and the implementation date of the first smoking cessation support is saved. The control unit 21 of the information processing device 20 presents the first information to the user. In this embodiment, presenting the first information to the user corresponds to starting the implementation of the first smoking cessation support. The first information is information suggesting that, in the first smoking cessation support for physical dependence, the essence of the merit of smoking is merely resolving the withdrawal symptoms caused by the decrease in nicotine concentration in the blood by ingesting nicotine through smoking. In other words, the first information is information suggesting that what the user (here, user X) feels as the merit of smoking is merely regaining what was taken away by the withdrawal symptoms of nicotine withdrawal by ingesting nicotine, and that it would not have been taken away if nicotine had not been taken in the first place. The first information may be adjusted appropriately according to the attribute information of the user. Specifically, the content of the first information may be adjusted based on the answer to a questionnaire about the merits of smoking that the user himself thinks are among the attribute information of the user.

[0058] The physical dependence targeted by the first smoking cessation support is closely related to withdrawal symptoms caused by the decrease over time of neurotransmitters (so-called pleasure substances) forcibly secreted in the brain by nicotine intake. Therefore, for example, the information processing device 20 may present, as the first information, a video or the like of a stuffed animal or doll, which represents the user, being hit on the head. This allows the user to intuitively understand that the smoker is being hit on the head by smoking (ingesting nicotine) and is being forced to secrete pleasure substances, and that the continued hitting makes it difficult for the smoker to secrete neurotransmitters on his / her own.

[0059] Step S4: The control unit 21 of the information processing device 20 judges the status of physical dependence after a first predetermined period has elapsed since the previous step (first judgment step). For example, when the process proceeds to step S4 following step S3, the control unit 21 judges the status of physical dependence after a first predetermined period has elapsed since the presentation of the first information. That is, the control unit 21 judges the status of physical dependence after a first predetermined period has elapsed from the start date of the implementation of the first smoking cessation support. The first predetermined period is, for example, seven days, but is not limited to this. The first predetermined period may be, for example, less than seven days, or may be eight days or more.

[0060] Various methods can be adopted for determining the state of physical dependence. For example, the control unit 21 requests the user (here, user X) to log in to the system on the information processing device 20 by email or a notification function of the application. Then, the control unit 21 determines the state of physical dependence by acquiring an answer to the state of overcoming physical dependence from the user via a response screen. In this embodiment, the description will be given assuming that the state of physical dependence is one of three stages, "overcome", "battling", and "defeat". When the state of physical dependence is "overcome", it indicates that the user has overcome physical dependence. When the state of physical dependence is "battling", it indicates that the user is in the process of overcoming physical dependence. When the state of physical dependence is "defeat", it indicates that the user has failed to overcome physical dependence. The state of failure to overcome physical dependence is a state in which the user resumes smoking after starting to quit smoking, has not been able to resume smoking, and has relapsed three or more times during the first smoking cessation support period.

[0061] FIG. 10 shows an example of an answer screen for obtaining an answer from a user regarding the status of overcoming physical dependence. The answer screen in FIG. 10 includes an object 401, an object 402, and an object 403 that can be selected by the user. The control unit 21 causes the terminal device 30 to display the user interface in FIG. 10. Based on the selection of any of the object 401, the object 402, and the object 403, the control unit 21 determines whether the status related to the physical dependence is "conquered," "in battle," or "defeated." If the status related to the physical dependence is "in battle," the process proceeds to step S5. If the status related to the physical dependence is "conquered," the process proceeds to step S6. If the status related to the physical dependence is "defeated," the process proceeds to step S12.

[0062] In the above, the control unit 21 acquires an answer to the overcoming state of physical dependence via the answer screen to determine the state of physical dependence, but the present invention is not limited to this. The control unit 21 may determine the state of physical dependence by having the user answer a questionnaire. For example, the questionnaire may include a first question, a second question, a third question, and a fourth question, and answer options for each. The first question is, for example, "Have you been able to continue quitting smoking since then?" The first answer option corresponding to the first question is "I have been able to go without smoking a single cigarette since I started quitting smoking," and the second answer option is "I have smoked again." If the first option is selected by the user, the control unit 21 presents the second question to the user. If the second option is selected by the user, the control unit 21 presents the third question to the user. The second question is, for example, "Do you feel like you have gotten over the mountain of your desire to smoke?" The first answer option corresponding to the second question is "I have gotten over it (started to go down)," and the second answer option is "I haven't started to go down yet." When the first option is selected by the user, the control unit 21 determines that the situation related to physical dependence is "overcome". When the second option is selected by the user, the control unit 21 determines that the situation related to physical dependence is "fighting". The third question is, for example, "After you have relapsed, have you started quitting smoking again?" The first answer option to the third question is "I am continuing to quit smoking again", and the second answer option is "I am not continuing to quit smoking". When the first option is selected by the user, the control unit 21 determines that the situation related to physical dependence is "fighting". When the second option is selected by the user, the control unit 21 presents the fourth question to the user. The fourth question is, for example, "How many times have you relapsed during the first smoking cessation support period, including the past?" The first answer option to the fourth question is "less than three times", and the second answer option is "three times or more". When the first option is selected by the user, the control unit 21 determines that the situation related to physical dependence is "fighting". When the second option is selected by the user, the control unit 21 determines that the state of physical dependence is "defeat."

[0063] Step S5: If the situation related to physical dependence is "battle", the first smoking cessation support continues. The control unit 21 of the information processing device 20 presents the first supplementary information to the user. The first supplementary information may be, for example, information related to the user's current situation. The first supplementary information may be determined based on the strength of the user's symptoms, changes, etc. For example, the first supplementary information may be an image of the user having overcome the peak. Also, for example, the first supplementary information may be an image of the body ghost's HP being steadily reduced. Following step S5, the process returns to step S4. As described above, in step S4, the situation related to physical dependence is determined after a first predetermined period has elapsed since the previous step. That is, here, the control unit 21 determines the situation related to physical dependence after a first predetermined period has elapsed since the presentation of the first supplementary information.

[0064] Step S6: If the physical dependence-related situation is "overcome", the first smoking cessation support ends. Also, of the three configurations that hinder smoking cessation, smoking cessation support for psychological dependence (second smoking cessation support) is implemented, and the implementation date of the second smoking cessation support is saved. The control unit 21 of the information processing device 20 presents the second information to the user. In this embodiment, presenting the second information to the user corresponds to starting the implementation of the second smoking cessation support.

[0065] The second information is information suggesting that the craving for cigarettes felt in a state where physical dependence has been overcome is psychological dependence, and that psychological dependence leads to the misunderstanding of the relief of withdrawal symptoms caused by nicotine as the benefit of cigarettes. Smokers often recognize that smoking has benefits such as euphoria and a sense of security. However, this recognition is incorrect, and the brain merely mistakenly believes that the relief of withdrawal symptoms caused by nicotine is the "benefit of cigarettes." Therefore, it is effective to show that cigarettes do not have benefits such as relieving stress or increasing concentration, and that smokers simply repeat the process of using nicotine to regain what was taken away by nicotine. For example, the control unit 21 presents, as the second information, a video showing how smokers are constantly submerged underwater due to their habitual nicotine intake and have difficulty breathing, and how they rise to the surface of the water only at the moment they take nicotine and are able to breathe. This suggests that if they had not taken nicotine, they would not have been submerged underwater and would have been able to breathe constantly like non-smokers and would not have had difficulty breathing. An example of the second information is shown in FIG. 11. The second piece of information can help the user realize that what he or she previously perceived as benefits of smoking was not actually a benefit, but rather that they were simply making up for the negative effects of nicotine, not a positive one; in other words, that at this point, when they have overcome physical dependence and no longer experience withdrawal symptoms, there is no point in smoking.

[0066] Step S7: The control unit 21 of the information processing device 20 judges the situation related to psychological dependence after the second predetermined period has elapsed since the previous step (second judgment step). For example, when the process proceeds to step S7 following step S5, the control unit 21 judges the situation related to psychological dependence after the second predetermined period has elapsed since the presentation of the second information. In other words, the control unit 21 judges the situation related to psychological dependence after the second predetermined period has elapsed from the start date of the implementation of the second smoking cessation support. The second predetermined period is, for example, 53 days, but is not limited thereto. The second predetermined period may be, for example, less than 53 days, or may be 54 days or more. The reason why the second predetermined period is set to 53 days is that it generally takes about 60 days from the start of smoking cessation to overcome psychological dependence, and is the number of days obtained by subtracting the first predetermined period of 7 days from 60 days, but as described above, the number of days is an example and can be set arbitrarily.

[0067] Various methods can be adopted for determining the state of psychological dependence. For example, the control unit 21 requests the user (here, user X) to log in to the system on the information processing device 20 by email or a notification function of the application. Then, the control unit 21 determines the state of psychological dependence by acquiring a response from the user regarding the state of overcoming psychological dependence. In this embodiment, the description will be given assuming that the state of psychological dependence is one of three stages, namely, "overcome", "battling", and "defeat". When the state of psychological dependence is "overcome", it indicates that the user has overcome psychological dependence. When the state of psychological dependence is "battling", it indicates that the user is in the process of overcoming psychological dependence. When the state of psychological dependence is "defeat", it indicates that the user has failed to overcome psychological dependence. The state of failure to overcome psychological dependence is a state in which the user resumes smoking.

[0068] FIG. 12 shows an example of an answer screen for obtaining an answer from a user regarding the status of overcoming psychological dependence. The answer screen in FIG. 12 includes an object 701, an object 702, and an object 703 that can be selected by the user. The control unit 21 causes the terminal device 30 to display the user interface in FIG. 12. Based on the selection of any one of the object 701, the object 702, and the object 703, the control unit 21 determines whether the status related to the psychological dependence is "conquered", "in battle", or "defeated". If the status related to the psychological dependence is "in battle", the process proceeds to step S8. If the status related to the psychological dependence is "conquered", the process proceeds to step S9. If the status related to the physical dependence is "defeated", the process proceeds to step S12.

[0069] In the above, the control unit 21 acquires an answer to the overcoming state of psychological dependence via the answer screen, and thereby determines the state of psychological dependence. However, the present invention is not limited to this example. The control unit 21 may determine the state of psychological dependence by having the user answer a questionnaire. For example, the questionnaire may include a first question, a second question, a third question, and a fourth question, and answer options for each question. The first question is, for example, "Have you been able to continue quitting smoking since then?" The first answer option corresponding to the first question is "I have been able to go a long time without smoking a single cigarette since I started quitting smoking," and the second answer option is "I have smoked again." If the first option is selected by the user, the control unit 21 presents the second question to the user. If the second option is selected by the user, the control unit 21 determines that the state of psychological dependence is "defeat." The second question is, for example, "The only stress that cigarettes can relieve is running out of nicotine. What kind of ghost is this?" The first answer option corresponding to the second question is "body ghost", the second is "mind ghost", and the third is "habit ghost". When the first option is selected by the user, the control unit 21 presents the third question to the user. When the second option is selected by the user, the control unit 21 determines that the situation related to psychological dependence is "battle". When the third option is selected by the user, the control unit 21 determines that the situation related to psychological dependence is "battle". The third question is, for example, "When you are busy at work, when someone you are meeting does not show up, or when you have a fight with your partner, or when you are under ordinary stress, what ghost do you want to smoke?" The first answer option corresponding to the third question is "body ghost", the second is "mind ghost", and the third is "habit ghost". When the first option is selected by the user, the control unit 21 determines that the situation related to psychological dependence is "battle". If the second option is selected by the user, the control unit 21 presents the user with a third question. If the third option is selected by the user, the control unit 21 determines that the state related to psychological dependence is "battling." The fourth question is, for example, "Do you still want to smoke?"The first answer option corresponding to the third question is "none left." The second option is "almost none left." The third option is "remaining." If the user selects the first or second option, the control unit 21 determines that the situation related to psychological dependence is "conquered." If the user selects the third option, the control unit 21 determines that the situation related to psychological dependence is "in battle."

[0070] The state of psychological dependence is judged to be "overcome" when the cause of the craving for cigarettes is accurately understood and the desire to smoke is not or barely remains. In order to more reliably grasp the degree of understanding of the cause of dependence, the control unit 21 may judge the degree of understanding of the cause of dependence by appropriately repeatedly asking the second question, the third question, or a question related thereto. In addition, in order to solidify the understanding, when the user answers the third question correctly, the control unit 21 may present an explanation of the answer. For example, the explanation may be "That's right! It's the influence of the mind ghost. Even though it's an illusion, you somehow believe it, so even after the body ghost has gone, you still have the desire to smoke. The way to overcome the mind ghost is to realize that it's an illusion. As long as you believe that cigarettes are relieving stress, the mind ghost will not go away. Did it really relieve you? Think about it carefully."

[0071] Although psychological dependence does not cause the same intense withdrawal symptoms as physical dependence, it is difficult to overcome over the long term. Even if a person overcomes physical dependence, if they still perceive smoking as beneficial (i.e., they have good memories of smoking), they will likely smoke again at some stage, which will lead to them giving up on quitting. Therefore, it is necessary to provide appropriate support to each user so that they do not move on to the next stage of smoking cessation support (the third smoking cessation support for conditioned reflexes) before they have completely overcome their psychological dependence.

[0072] Step S8: If the situation related to psychological dependence is "fighting", the second smoking cessation support continues. The control unit 21 of the information processing device 20 presents the second supplementary information to the user. The second supplementary information may be additional information for helping the user understand that the benefits of quitting smoking are merely a delusion. After step S8, the process returns to step S7. As described above, in step S7, the situation related to psychological dependence is judged after a second predetermined period has elapsed since the previous step. That is, here, the control unit 21 judges the situation related to psychological dependence after a second predetermined period has elapsed since the presentation of the second supplementary information.

[0073] Step S9: If the psychological dependence situation is "overcome", the second smoking cessation support ends. Of the three configurations that hinder smoking cessation, smoking cessation support for the conditioned reflex (third smoking cessation support) is implemented, and the implementation date of the third smoking cessation support is saved. The control unit 21 of the information processing device 20 presents the third information to the user. In this embodiment, presenting the third information to the user corresponds to starting the implementation of the third smoking cessation support.

[0074] The third piece of information indicates that conditioned reflexes are different from physical and psychological dependence in that they are an obstacle to quitting smoking, and that conditioned reflexes alone do not lead to smoking. Smoking due to conditioned reflexes is when a person reflexively wants to smoke in places where they used to smoke when they were a smoker, such as at drinking parties, on verandas, or when they feel stressed or irritated, or in situations where they used to rely on cigarettes. This is a factor that is easily confused with psychological dependence, but while psychological dependence typically causes the desire to smoke in order to enjoy what is perceived as the benefit of smoking, conditioned reflexes cause the desire to smoke as a conditioned reflex, regardless of the benefit, as mentioned above. For example, the commonly known Pavlov's dog experiment is a typical example of a conditioned reflex. Although it is a reflex that only occurs in people who have smoked before, the level of desire is weak, so the third piece of information suggests that conditioned reflexes alone do not cause people to smoke, but that people only smoke when they have psychological dependence.

[0075] Step S10: The control unit 21 of the information processing device 20 determines a situation related to a conditioned reflex after a third predetermined period has elapsed since the previous step (third determination step). For example, when the process proceeds to step S10 following step S9, the control unit 21 judges the situation related to the conditioned reflex after the third predetermined period has elapsed since the presentation of the third information. In other words, the control unit 21 judges the situation related to the conditioned reflex after the third predetermined period has elapsed since the start date of the implementation of the third smoking cessation support. The third predetermined period is, for example, 30 days, but is not limited thereto. The third predetermined period may be, for example, less than 30 days, or may be 31 days or more. The reason why the third predetermined period is set to 30 days is that it generally takes about 90 days from the start of smoking cessation to overcome the conditioned reflex, and is the number of days obtained by subtracting 60 days, which is the sum of the first predetermined period of 7 days and the second predetermined period of 53 days, from 90 days, but as described above, the number of days is an example and can be set arbitrarily.

[0076] Various methods can be adopted for determining the state of the conditioned reflex. For example, the control unit 21 requests the user (here, user X) to log in to the system on the information processing device 20 by email or a notification function of the application. The control unit 21 then obtains a response from the user regarding the overcoming state of the conditioned reflex, thereby determining the state of the conditioned reflex. In this embodiment, the description will be given assuming that the state of the conditioned reflex is one of three stages, namely, "overcome", "battling", and "defeat". When the state of the conditioned reflex is "overcome", it indicates that the user has overcome the conditioned reflex. When the state of the conditioned reflex is "battling", it indicates that the user is in the process of overcoming the conditioned reflex. When the state of the conditioned reflex is "defeat", it indicates that the user has failed to overcome the conditioned reflex. However, as described above, the conditioned reflex does not lead to smoking by itself, but rather it is considered that the psychological dependence that was thought to have been overcome was not completely overcome, leading to smoking. Therefore, the state of failure to overcome the conditioned reflex is synonymous with the state of failure to overcome the psychological dependence, and is the state in which the user resumes smoking.

[0077] FIG. 13 shows an example of an answer screen for obtaining an answer from the user regarding the overcoming status of the conditioned reflex. The answer screen in FIG. 13 includes an object 1001, an object 1002, and an object 1003 that can be selected by the user. The control unit 21 causes the terminal device 30 to display the user interface in FIG. 13. Based on the selection of any of the object 1001, the object 1002, and the object 1003, the control unit 21 determines whether the status related to the conditioned reflex is "conquered", "in battle", or "defeated". If the status related to the conditioned reflex is "in battle", the process proceeds to step S11. If the status related to the conditioned reflex is "conquered", the process ends. That is, in this case, the support for the user ends. If the status related to the physical dependence is "defeated", the process proceeds to step S12.

[0078] In the above, the control unit 21 acquires an answer to the overcoming state of the conditioned reflex via the answer screen, and thereby determines the state related to the conditioned reflex. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The control unit 21 may determine the state related to the conditioned reflex by having the user answer a questionnaire. For example, the questionnaire may include a first question, a second question, a third question, and a fourth question, and answer options for each of them. The first question is, for example, "Have you been able to continue quitting smoking since then?" The first answer option corresponding to the first question is "I have been able to go a long time without smoking a single cigarette since I started quitting smoking," and the second answer option is "I have smoked again." If the first option is selected by the user, the control unit 21 presents the second question to the user. If the second option is selected by the user, the control unit 21 determines that the state related to the conditioned reflex is "defeat." The second question is, for example, "The only stress that cigarettes can relieve is running out of nicotine. What ghost is this?" The first answer choice corresponding to the second question is "body ghost", the second is "mind ghost", and the third is "habit ghost". When the first choice is selected by the user, the control unit 21 presents the third question to the user. When the second choice is selected by the user, the control unit 21 determines that the situation related to the conditioned reflex is "in combat". When the third choice is selected by the user, the control unit 21 determines that the situation related to the conditioned reflex is "in combat". The third question is "When you are busy at work, when someone you are meeting doesn't show up, or when you have a fight with your partner, or when you are under everyday stress, what ghost do you feel like smoking?" The first answer choice corresponding to the third question is "body ghost", the second is "mind ghost", and the third is "habit ghost". When the first choice is selected by the user, the control unit 21 determines that the situation related to the conditioned reflex is "in combat". If the second option is selected by the user, the control unit 21 presents the user with a third question. If the third option is selected by the user, the control unit 21 determines that the situation related to the conditioned reflex is "in combat." The fourth question is "Which ghost makes you want to smoke just by being in a smoking area?"The first answer option corresponding to the fourth question is "Body ghost", the second is "Mind ghost", and the third is "Habit ghost". If the first option is selected by the user, the control unit 21 determines that the situation related to the conditioned reflex is "In combat". If the second option is selected by the user, the control unit 21 determines that the situation related to the conditioned reflex is "In combat". If the third option is selected by the user, the control unit 21 determines that the situation related to the conditioned reflex is "Conquered".

[0079] Step S11: If the situation related to the conditioned reflex is "fighting", the third smoking cessation support continues. The control unit 21 of the information processing device 20 presents the third supplementary information to the user. The third supplementary information may be additional information for overcoming the conditioned reflex. Following step S11, the process returns to step S10. As described above, in step S10, the situation related to psychological dependence is determined after a third predetermined period has elapsed since the previous step. That is, here, the control unit 21 determines the situation related to the conditioned reflex after a third predetermined period has elapsed since the presentation of the third supplementary information.

[0080] Step S12: In steps S4, S7, and S10, if the status related to physical dependence, psychological dependence, or conditioned reflex is “defeat,” the control unit 21 of the information processing device 20 requests the user to input the date of defeat and registers the date of defeat.

[0081] Step S13: The control unit 21 of the information processing device 20 judges whether or not there is an intention to try again after a fourth predetermined period from the previous step. Here, the control unit 21 judges whether or not there is an intention to try again after a fourth predetermined period from the day of defeat. The fourth predetermined period is, for example, 30 days, but is not limited to this. The fourth predetermined period may be, for example, less than 30 days, or may be 31 days or more. If there is an intention to try again, the process returns to step S1. On the other hand, if there is no intention to try again, step S13 is repeated. That is, the control unit 21 judges whether or not there is an intention to try again after a fourth predetermined period from the previous step.

[0082] Various methods can be used to determine whether or not the user has an intention to try again. For example, the control unit 21 may request the user to log in to the system and confirm the intention to try again. When confirming the intention to try again, the control unit 21 may present recommended information (hereinafter, simply referred to as recommended information) regarding trying to quit smoking again. The recommended information includes, but is not limited to, information encouraging the user to try to quit smoking again.

[0083] The recommendation information may be adjusted appropriately based on the circumstances of failure, etc. For example, if the user fails to overcome physical dependence, the recommendation information may be information that makes the user realize that he or she was unable to overcome physical dependence. The recommendation information may also be information that encourages the user to try again depending on the state of the voluntary attempt to quit smoking after smoking. For example, if the user does not attempt to quit smoking voluntarily after the failure date (after giving up on quitting smoking), the recommendation information may be information that encourages an immediate reattempt. If the user repeatedly tries to quit smoking voluntarily and then smokes again, the recommendation information may be information that encourages the user to postpone the attempt to quit smoking, return to being a smoker, and try again in a few months.

[0084] For example, if the user fails to overcome psychological dependence, the recommendation information may be information that makes the user realize that he or she was unable to overcome psychological dependence. The recommendation information may also be information that makes the user realize what perceptions (such as the benefits of smoking) led the user to start smoking, and encourages the user to postpone the attempt to quit smoking, return to being a smoker, and try again in a few months.

[0085] For example, if the user is unable to overcome the conditioned reflex, the recommendation information may be information that reminds the user that the conditioned reflex alone does not lead to smoking. The recommendation information may also be information that reminds the user of the psychological dependence that led to smoking, and if the number of cigarettes smoked is small, the recommendation information may be information that indicates that physical dependence has not developed and encourages the user to try to quit smoking again. On the other hand, if the number of cigarettes smoked is large, the physical dependence and psychological dependence have not been resolved (the user has returned to the state before starting to quit smoking). Therefore, in this case, the recommendation information may be information that encourages the user to postpone the attempt to quit smoking, return to being a smoker, and try again in a few months.

[0086] In addition, when the user logs in at any time after being defeated, the control unit 21 may also present information regarding the retry of quitting smoking and confirm the user's intention to try again. The information regarding the retry of quitting smoking is information that allows the user to view the failure to quit smoking in a positive way, such as "it is natural to fail at quitting smoking" and "I was able to experience that I can return to being a smoker at any time."

[0087] As described above, an example of the entire flow of the smoking cessation support of this embodiment has been described with reference to a flowchart, but according to this embodiment, the smoking cessation support of the smoker can be supported stepwise through the above-mentioned multiple steps. Here, in this embodiment, the first information is information suggesting that the essence of the merit of smoking is that the withdrawal symptoms caused by the decrease in blood nicotine concentration are merely eliminated by ingesting nicotine through smoking, and the second information is information suggesting that the craving for cigarettes felt in a state where physical dependence has been overcome is psychological dependence, and that the elimination of withdrawal symptoms by nicotine is merely mistaken for the benefit of cigarettes. In other words, in the smoking cessation support according to this embodiment, the disadvantages of smoking are not excessively promoted. Therefore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to provide a smoking cessation support method and a smoking cessation support system that support smokers in quitting smoking without excessively promoting the disadvantages of smoking, while targeting not only smokers who wish to quit smoking but also smokers who do not actively wish to quit smoking.

[0088] It should be noted that the smoking cessation support method of the present disclosure does not necessarily have to execute all of the above steps, and some steps may be omitted. In addition, the above explanation is based on the assumption that user X is a first-time user, but if the user is a re-attempting user, different support may be executed. For example, the information processing device 20 may determine in step S1 whether the user is a first-time user or a re-attempting user, and if the user is a re-attempting user, may present information indicating where the user gave up quitting smoking in the previous attempt (where the user gave up quitting smoking among the three factors that hinder quitting smoking) and the reason for giving up, in addition to the information presented to the first-time user.

[0089] (Example) Table 1 shows the percentage of people who achieved smoking cessation using the smoking cessation support method according to this embodiment. More than half of the people who used this smoking cessation support system (hereinafter also referred to as participants) had no desire to quit smoking at the time of participation, but they started to quit smoking without any problems and succeeded. The smoking cessation success rate three months after a smoking cessation clinic is said to be about 60%, but the smoking cessation support method according to this embodiment has an effect that exceeds that of a smoking cessation clinic. Regarding the long-term effect of a smoking cessation clinic, the smoking cessation continuation rate nine months after the end of support is generally about 30%. The smoking cessation support method according to this embodiment also has the effect of continuing smoking cessation for a long period of time compared to conventional methods.

[0090] [Table 1]

[0091] Although the present disclosure has been described based on the drawings and embodiments, it should be noted that those skilled in the art can easily make various modifications and corrections based on the present disclosure. Therefore, it should be noted that these modifications and corrections are included in the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the functions included in each means or step can be rearranged so as not to be logically inconsistent, and multiple means or steps can be combined or divided into one.

[0092] The smoking cessation support method in claim 1 is executed, for example, by the information processing device 20. In this case, "presenting first information suggesting that in the first smoking cessation support for physical dependence, the essential merit of smoking is merely resolving withdrawal symptoms caused by a decrease in nicotine concentration in the blood by ingesting nicotine through smoking, and that the essential merit of smoking is merely resolving withdrawal symptoms caused by a decrease in nicotine concentration in the blood by ingesting nicotine through smoking" in claim 1 corresponds to the control unit 21 of the information processing device 20 presenting the first information.

[0093] Furthermore, in claim 1, "determining whether or not the physical dependence has been overcome after a first specified period has elapsed since the presentation of the first information, and if the physical dependence has been overcome, proceeding to a second smoking cessation support for the psychological dependence" corresponds to the control unit 21 of the information processing device 20 determining the state of physical dependence after a first specified period has elapsed since the presentation of the first information, and if the state of physical dependence is "overcome", ending the first smoking cessation support and implementing the second smoking cessation support.

[0094] Furthermore, in claim 1, "in the second smoking cessation support, second information is presented suggesting that the craving for tobacco felt after physical dependence has been overcome is psychological dependence, and that psychological dependence arises from the mistaken belief that the relief of nicotine withdrawal symptoms is the benefit of tobacco, and that tobacco relieves psychological pain such as stress" corresponds to the control unit 21 of the information processing device 20 presenting the second information.

[0095] Furthermore, in claim 1, "determining whether or not the psychological dependence has been overcome after a second specified period has elapsed since the presentation of the second information, and if the psychological dependence has been overcome, proceeding to a third smoking cessation support for the conditioned reflex" corresponds to the control unit 21 of the information processing device 20 determining the situation related to psychological dependence after a second specified period has elapsed since the presentation of the second information, and if the situation related to psychological dependence is "overcome", ending the second smoking cessation support and implementing the third smoking cessation support.

[0096] In addition, the statement in claim 1 that "in the third smoking cessation support, third information is presented indicating that the conditioned reflex is an obstacle to achieving smoking cessation that is different from the physical dependence and the psychological dependence, and that the conditioned reflex alone does not lead to smoking" corresponds to the control unit 21 of the information processing device 20 presenting the third information.

[0097] In addition, the statement in claim 2 that "introductory information is presented indicating that the physical dependence, the psychological dependence, and the conditioned reflex exist as dependencies that hinder the achievement of smoking cessation, and recommending the use of an effective smoking cessation aid as an alternative to smoking as a means of overcoming the physical dependence" corresponds to the control unit 21 of the information processing device 20 presenting the introductory information. [Explanation of symbols]

[0098] 1. Smoking cessation support system 10 Terminal Equipment 11 Control section 12 Storage section 13. Communications Department 14 Input section 15 Output section 20 Information processing device 21 Control section 22 Memory section 23 Communications Department 30 Terminal Equipment 31 Control Unit 32 Storage section 33 Communications Department 34 Input section 35 Output section 401, 402, 403, 701, 702, 703, 1001, 1002, 1003 objects

Claims

1. A method for supporting smoking cessation that clarifies the structure of nicotine dependence, which inhibits smoking cessation, into three elements: physical dependence, psychological dependence, and conditioned reflex, and provides smoking cessation support in this order, In the first smoking cessation support for physical dependence, a first step is to present first information suggesting that the essence of the benefit of smoking is merely the elimination of withdrawal symptoms caused by a decrease in nicotine concentration in the blood by ingesting nicotine through smoking; a first determination step of determining whether or not the physical dependence has been overcome after a first predetermined period has elapsed since the presentation of the first information, and proceeding to a second smoking cessation support for the psychological dependence if the physical dependence has been overcome; a second step of presenting second information in the second smoking cessation support that suggests that the craving for tobacco felt when physical dependence is overcome is psychological dependence, and that psychological dependence arises from the mistaken belief that the relief of withdrawal symptoms caused by nicotine is an effect of tobacco, and that tobacco relieves psychological pain such as stress; a second determination step of determining whether or not the psychological dependence has been overcome after a second predetermined period has elapsed since the presentation of the second information, and proceeding to a third smoking cessation support for the conditioned reflex if the psychological dependence has been overcome; a third step of presenting third information in the third smoking cessation support indicating that the conditioned reflex is an impediment to smoking cessation different from the physical dependence and the psychological dependence, and that the conditioned reflex alone does not lead to smoking; Smoking cessation support methods, including:

2. Before the start of the first smoking cessation support, 2. The smoking cessation support method according to claim 1, further comprising presenting introductory information indicating the existence of the physical dependence, the psychological dependence, and the conditioned reflex as dependencies that impede achievement of smoking cessation, and recommending the use of an effective smoking cessation aid as an alternative to smoking as a means of overcoming the physical dependence.

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