Smoking: Addiction and how to quit



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Smoking: Addiction and how to quit
Smoking: Addiction and how to quit © Wayne Wilson / Hulton Archive

Do you know why it's so hard to quit or cut down on smoking? We do not benefit from smoking and addiction in a number of different ways. Physically, dopamine is a neuromodulator released naturally in the brain that provides us with a sense of satisfaction and comfort when consuming various substances and engaging in certain activities.

The dopamine level drops abruptly after some substances, such as nicotine, stimulate the release in an exceptional manner, causing us to consume again. It is impossible to get the same level of satisfaction from smoking as we did with our first cigarette, so we are forced to increase our physical needs.

One of the reasons why quitting is difficult is nicotine addiction, which can last a few days to a few weeks. The release of dopamine on the other hand creates a sense of comfort, also because some routines, some behaviors, and everything that comes with consumption suits us so well.

From a psychological perspective, smokers also develop a dependence on a routine that lasts a very long time and is much harder to break because of the many possible activities that are related to the habit of smoking as well as the satisfaction that results from these routines.

Often, it lasts for several months or even years. This aspect of smoking does not benefit us at all. Cigarettes are still readily available in our country and region, as are smoking places. There are a lot of places where you can smoke, including parks, squares, cafes, and restaurants.

While smoking is regarded as an addiction and a very unhealthy habit, it is not publicly condemned, and at an earlier age it is even encouraged by peers.

How to stop smoking

So, what is the best way to reduce or stop? Listed below are some strategies you can use to break this very unhealthy habit: Write down your 10 reasons for cutting back (to begin with) or stopping, The REDUCTION PLAN - Plan on cutting down on cigarettes every week, but make small changes barely noticeable, A SMOKING DIARY - Record how many cigarettes you smoke each week or day.

By increasing your awareness, you can track your progress but also reduce your spending, NICOTINE REPLACEMENT - helpful for those with nicotine addiction who need short-term relief, Generally, though, it is advisable to delay gratification for 10 minutes at a time, occupy yourself with something, and then repeat the process over and over again. Repeat this strategy until you are no longer able to procrastinate.