Emotional Effects Caused by Smoking

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By Caroline Schley
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Smoking is an emotional addiction as well as a physical addiction. Understanding the emotional effects that smoking has on a subject may may it easier to quit. As you become more addicted to smoking, the emotional effects will become more pronounced.

Energy

The small amount of caffeine in cigarettes (from the nicotine) causes an energy rush that may lead to increased speed of talking and elevated mood.

Relaxation

Smoking may make you feel euphoric and relaxed. This is a function of the chemical effect of nicotine in cigarettes and also of deep breathing patterns used while smoking.

Effect on Appetite

Smoking has an effect as an appetite suppressant andr a diuretic.

Force of Habit

Smoking may also be used as an emotional crutch in unpleasant times. Due to the buildup of the habit, smokers become emotionally dependent and may start to smoke when they are sad, scared or unhappy.

Quitting Time

This combination of effects may cause people to feel stressed, tired or be likely to gain weight as they attempt to quit smoking. If you are ready to quit, make sure to stay properly hydrated and practice deep breathing exercises to offset negative emotional symptoms. Also consider using nicotine in a different form (patch or gum) for your first few weeks without cigarettes.