What is it?
Smoking addiction, primarily caused by nicotine, is both physical and psychological. Nicotine stimulates brain receptors linked to pleasure and reward, creating a cycle of dependence. Over time, it becomes a compulsive habit that can be hard to break, despite knowing the health risks.
What causes it?
Nicotine addiction develops quickly and is sustained by a combination of factors such as:
- Repeated use leading to tolerance and withdrawal symptoms
- Using smoking as a way to manage stress, boredom, or social pressure
- Family or peer influence, especially during adolescence
- Habitual associations, like smoking with coffee, after meals, or during breaks
- Lack of coping strategies to manage emotional or environmental trigger
What are the possible symptoms?
Nicotine addiction symptoms may include:
- Strong, frequent cravings to smoke
- Irritability, anxiety, or restlessness when trying to quit
- Smoking even when sick or in restricted areas
- Difficulty focusing without smoking
- Relapse after brief attempts to stop
What do we do?
Smoking cessation is supported by Dr. Prabhojit through a combination of behavioural, pharmacological, and psychological interventions.
Treatment includes:
Assessment
of smoking patterns and readiness to quit
01
Medication
or nicotine replacement therapy to reduce cravings and withdrawal
02
Behavioural therapy
to break the habit and identify smoking triggers
03
Stress-reduction techniques
and lifestyle changes to support long-term success
04
Structured follow-up
and relapse prevention planning
05