Smoking Cessation

Alternate Names : Quitting Smoking, Nicotine Withdrawal

Smoking cessation is the process of quitting smoking. It involves withdrawal from nicotine addiction and a change in habits.

What is going on in the body?

At least 70% of smokers in the United States have made at least one quit attempt. The nicotine in tobacco is as addictive as cocaine. It is because of this addiction that quitting can be so difficult. Nicotine is a poisonous chemical found in tobacco. It is the substance that produces many of the effects of tobacco. Nicotine withdrawal occurs when the person takes in a lesser amount of nicotine. To stop smoking, a person must deal with nicotine addiction. The individual also needs to change learned associations, or habits.

What are the causes and risks of the condition?

People quickly become dependent on nicotine when using tobacco products. Anyone who uses these substances is at risk of experiencing withdrawal symptoms. A trigger is anything that creates an impulse to use tobacco. Triggers can be feelings, such as stress, anxiety, depression, or boredom. They can be visual, such as a picture of a poised glamorous movie star taking a long, seemingly satisfying drag. Triggers can even be certain times of the day, such as work breaks or meals.