Some people smoke when they feel stressed. They use smoking as a way to cope. There are many problems with using cigarettes as a way to cope with stress or other unpleasant feelings.
- Smoking isn’t a long-term stress reliever. In the time it takes to smoke a cigarette, you could do something else that’s more effective—like take a short walk or try a relaxation exercise.
- Smoking doesn’t solve the problem that’s giving you stress. Your stress will return.
- Nicotine addiction causes stress. Cravings for nicotine feel stressful because your body begins to go through withdrawal.
Some smokers find it hard to give up cigarettes as a way to cope with stress. It’s important to find healthy ways to handle stress and take care of yourself without smoking. There are many other ways to cope with stress that don’t involve smoking.
