psychological dependence on smoking is mainly related to the stimulation of nicotine receptors in the central nervous system and the release of dopamine , the hormone of joy and pleasure, which reinforces the bad habit with a feeling-good reward.
She adds: "For some people, smoking is a calming agent and helps them concentrate, while for others it is a means of socializing."
It notes that quitting smoking is accompanied by withdrawal symptoms including irritability, anxiety, insomnia, mood swings, and a severe, chesty cough in the first few weeks. These symptoms peak within 3-7 days and then gradually subside, lasting no more than 21 days for most people .
For his part, Dr. Alexander Myasnikov confirms that there are multiple ways to quit smoking, and points out that quitting suddenly is better than gradually reducing cigarettes , because it greatly reduces the relapse rate.
Dr. Myasnikov warns of the health risks of smoking, noting that 90% of smokers develop lung cancer , especially those who have smoked for more than 15 years, and that increasing the number of cigarettes smoked daily significantly increases the risks.
He also emphasizes the dangers of delaying quitting smoking, as the body remains at risk of cardiovascular disease for 2-3 years after quitting , and of cancer for 5-6 years . Therefore, he advises quitting immediately without delay.
