Cigarettes contain a form of nicotine molecule that is quite addictive. The main reason as to why many smokers opt not to quit smoking is not because they find smoking to be thrilling. In fact, they are well aware of the consequences, but the mental effects of quitting smoking scare them away. If a smoker decides to quit, they go through severe physical and psychological effects caused by nicotine withdrawal. And the longer one has been a smoker, the more severe the withdrawal symptoms are likely to be. Quitting smoking requires a high level of self-discipline and perseverance. Fortunately, some programs and rehabs help people trying to quit smoking to handle the intense mental effects of nicotine withdrawal.
Mental effects of quitting smoking
If you are considering quitting smoking, it is highly recommended that you understand the psychological effects of nicotine withdrawal. The effects can be uncomfortable but with the help of a good program and support, quitting smoking can be manageable.
Stress, anxiety, and depression
A majority of smokers use cigarettes as a solution for stress. Therefore, during the recovery period, the nicotine cravings can become quite stressful. Nicotine withdrawal might also hinder an individual’s ability to handle anxiety and stress. Nicotine is a stimulant. So, smokers experience a sense of wellbeing after smoking, however, when one is trying to quit, the feeling of wellbeing is gone causing one to feel down and worse than ever before. Eventually, the dopamine pathways that are responsible for mood balance stop working accordingly resulting in anxiety and depression.
Short temper
Nicotine takes command of the brain’s adrenaline circuitry, and when quitting smoking, anger becomes the means of the mind and the body to release the extra adrenaline. Smokers trying to recover will often find themselves prompting arguments, quarrels, conflicts and fights in an unknowingly attempt to induce adrenaline releases. Therefore, when quitting smoking, it is wise to indulge in activities that will help you release the tension and frustrations without hurting or harming those around you.
Irritability, impatience, and restlessness
Cigarettes are a perfect way to pass the time. Therefore, when recovering, it means that there is a time that needs to be occupied. Days during a recovery can seem to be the longest days ever and divert your attention to other activities can be quite challenging. It is imperative to remember that the brain is only shedding the effects of nicotine dependency, and mental exhaustion is a part of recovery.
To make sure that you do not give up, always remember that the mental effects of quitting smoking will eventually fade and transform to healthier mental benefits.