Smoking and depressionĪdults with depression are twice as likely to smoke as adults without depression. Smoking reduces the withdrawal symptoms, but doesn’t reduce anxiety or deal with the reasons someone may feel that way. This feeling is temporary and soon gives way to withdrawal symptoms and increased cravings. Nicotine creates an immediate sense of relaxation, so people smoke in the belief it reduces stress and anxiety. However, research has shown that smoking actually increases anxiety and tension. Some people smoke as ‘self-medication’ to ease feelings of stress. This cycle is how most smokers become nicotine dependent. Smoking temporarily reduces these withdrawal symptoms and can therefore reinforce the habit. Regular doses of nicotine lead to changes in the brain, which then lead to nicotine withdrawal symptoms when the supply of nicotine decreases. At first, nicotine improves mood and concentration, decreases anger and stress, relaxes muscles and reduces appetite. When a person smokes, nicotine reaches the brain within about ten seconds. It’s never too late to give up, and you may find that quitting reduces your levels of stress, anxiety and depression. If you’re a smoker, there is now a lot of support available to help you quit. We all know the physical health risks of smoking tobacco, but did you know smoking also affects people's mental health?
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