Is Your Smoking Habit an Addiction?

In the group and individual smoking cessation programs I offer the discussion often includes the question as to whether cigarettes are truly "addictive."

Over the years I have come to the conclusion the answer is either yes or no and a lot hinges on how you perceive the idea of addiction.

For some addiction implies an inability to function without the drug of choice and the prospect of agonizing withdrawal symptoms if you do decide to let go of the habit.

This does hold true for many people who have a heavy narcotic habit and with some hardcore alcoholics-withdrawal in these cases may need medical intervention in order to be done safely.

On this count cigarette smoking is not addictive. As far as I know, no one has ever died for nicotine withdrawal. Next time you see your doctor ask if he or she has ever admitted someone to the hospital due to complications related to smoking cessation . Chances are you will get a puzzled look and the response of "no."

Any temporary physical or emotional symptoms experienced when you stop smoking are harmless and will pass soon enough if you don't light up again.

Now where smoking does resemble other addictions is in that once you stop it is a really crazy bad idea to think you can cheat once in awhile without relapsing.

The scenario usually entails the person rationalizing that sneaking one cigarette here and there won't hurt. However, experience shows that more often than not the ex-smoker will return to the full blown habit sooner than later. If you were a serious smoker (pack a day+ for years) controlled use is probably not an option for you, breaking free once and for all is the way to go.

So on that count smoking is like an addiction in that once you break free, don't tempt fate by cheating.

If you have any questions on how my smoking cessation program can help you to lead a healthier, cleaner and possibly longer life, please call me for a free, confidential phone consultation at (732) 714-7040.