Understanding and Overcoming Nicotine Withdrawal Symptoms: The Psychological Effects of Quitting Smoking

KOMPAS.com – Quitting smoking is indeed difficult because the process involves our psychology. When we stop smoking, we can experience withdrawal symptoms.

Well, one of the common withdrawal symptoms is depression, anxiety, irritability, and mood swings.

What causes nicotine withdrawal to affect the psyche?

When you stop smoking, your body is no longer exposed to nicotine. The body that was initially dependent on nicotine begins to feel “starved” for the substance.

When that happens, the dopamine levels in the body are significantly reduced.

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter or brain chemical that makes us feel good.

This decrease in dopamine levels can trigger depression. Active smokers often rely on nicotine when they think or feel stressed.

When they decide to quit smoking, they will feel they no longer have a “crutch” to help them through difficult times.

Of course these feelings are just a trap. In addition to depression, they can also be easily stressed and angry.

Some people describe quitting smoking as feeling like losing a friend.

As long as you understand that this is just a stage and that what you are feeling is normal, you can get through difficult times and feel more confident without smoking.

Also read: 6 Withdrawal Symptoms After Quitting Smoking and How to Overcome Them

How to deal with nicotine withdrawal

To help you get through the emotional process of quitting smoking, here’s what you can do:

Exercise can distract you from the desire to smoke.

Other studies have found that exercise can be an effective intervention for preventing and treating depressive symptoms.

No need to do strenuous exercise. You can do physical activity by walking outdoors.

Exercise releases endorphins in the brain, which can elevate mood.

Create realistic goals

Set realistic goals don’t go beyond your means. You can divide your goal into small steps in order to complete it well.

Find ways to stay motivated and inspired after you quit smoking.

When negative or sad thoughts arise, remind yourself that this is just a process of quitting smoking.

Once you get past it, you will be completely free from nicotine and can get overall body health.

Find a distraction

Make a list of things you can do the next time you feel like smoking, such as do a crossword puzzle or call a supportive friend.

Stopping negative thought patterns is often as easy as changing what we do.

Also read: Many Benefits, This Is What Happens To The Body After Quitting Smoking

Spend time with people who make you feel better.

Friends and family can be a great source of support as you quit smoking.

Spending time with other people can also help fight feelings of loneliness and depression.

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2023-08-30 12:00:00
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