Nicotine has a powerful effect on your mental wellbeing.
Nicotine signals your brain to release dopamine, the “free-good chemical”, when you smoke or vape. It can make you feel more alert and relaxed in the moment. But that good feeling quickly fades away. When it goes away, your body wants more nicotine, leaving you feeling stressed, agitated, and restless.
When you quit and your body adjusts to being without nicotine, you may experience low moods, sadness, or anxiety. These feelings are temporary and usually get easier after your first 2 to 4 weeks of being nicotine-free.1,2 In fact, quitting smoking has been proven to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression in the long term.3,4
Quitting makes space for you to find healthier coping mechanisms to manage your stress and mood.
Some people believe that smoking or vaping helps them handle stress, but the truth is that it only makes things worse. Smoking or vaping can increase your heart rate, blood pressure, and muscle tension, making you feel more anxious. The relaxation you feel while smoking is actually just relief from nicotine withdrawal between cigarettes. Quitting makes space for you to find healthier coping mechanisms to manage your stress.
It’s important to monitor your mood after quitting and seek advice from a healthcare provider if your feelings of depression or anxiety persist.
Coping Strategies to Manage Moods
Be kind to yourself
Everyone has days when they don’t feel their best. Remind yourself that how you’re feeling is normal and will go away. Be patient and kind to yourself until these feelings pass, as you would a friend or loved one.
Try self-care activities
Mindfulness, movement, and reflection are proven self-care tools to help reduce stress and calm symptoms of anxiety and depression. Try them out and see what works for you.
Connect with others
Having regular social interactions, online or offline, can help boost your mood.