Leaving smoking or alcohol behind is one that typically does not happen immediately. It’s a path of relapses, frustration and perceived failure. Then why not just try, or as Yoda said not try; do!
They are an addiction. For example, one inhaled puff of a cigarette brings nicotine to the brain within 20 seconds. You read this correctly, 20 seconds! The nicotine immediately binds with Dopamine receptors. These receptors produce euphoria and also a sense of calm; the impact only increases on every further inhalation of the cigarette.
The consequences of cigarette smoking include the expense per pack; they are also messy and affect others through second hand smoke. This is not mention, the possible emphysema, lung or throat cancer and heart attack.
Why not just quit? It’s not easy as the nicotine and dopamine work together to keep the addiction. Not to mention, the habit of the “need for a cigarette”.
There are many means to quit smoking, more than can be accounted for in this post. Scientifically and realistically the most effective is through medication and behavior therapy, in this case there is disagreement on medication, this is an opinion based upon the data.
The most impact comes from therapy and the use of support apps or websites. It’s quite difficult to quit alone and a therapist has many means to assist. For example, there is Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), tapping to calm the anxiety. There are also support websites from the CDC or American Lung Association, among others.
On a quick note, I sought support from a hypnotist and it helped me stop alcohol use. As I became older, the alcohol became a nuisance more than of enjoyment. The EFT and app support helped me quit.
I hope this article helps those with the desire to “quit”. For therapists, we offer a great platform to help you build a successful practice. Contact us to learn more and it’s free to join BetterMindDaily.com as a practitioner.
