Why is using tobacco so addictive?
There are a number of factors that drive
a smoker’s need to smoke:
Brain chemistry: Nicotine is a very powerful drug that affects mood, focus and thinking. In seven seconds, a puff of nicotine begins to calm a smoker’s brain. The brain gets used to hundreds of nicotine ‘hits’ each day – one with each puff.
Behavioural conditioning: Smoking is driven by stimulus-response behaviour; for example, the smell of a cigarette or a cup of coffee automatically producing a strong urge to smoke. A lot of smoking is done automatically, without thinking about it.
Psychology: Smokers often feel they need a cigarette to feel right or to think clearly. People with a family history of depression, schizophrenia, attention deficit disorder and other conditions may have a harder time stopping smoking.
Social Aspects: Smoking is a social ritual for many people, shared with family, friends or co-workers. When other people light up, it is often natural for the smoker to join them.
I've quit several times, but always go back. Why?
Nicotine is an addictive substance for many people. Quitting smoking is different for everyone. Some people are able to stop "cold turkey" and then never go back. More frequently, it may take several quit attempts before quitting for good. In fact, most smokers make an average of three or four quit attempts before becoming long-term non-smokers.
Relapse or going back to smoking is the rule rather than the exception when you are trying to quit. It’s part of the process in working toward staying smoke free.
Don't give up. Your body and your loved ones will thank you when you finally stay smoke free.