Is quitting smoking really that hard?

Do you know what’s harder than quitting smoking? Almost everything. Climbing Mount Everest, getting through TSA security without being stopped for having liquids in your carry-on bag, even figuring out how to use a rotary phone. But for some reason, when it comes to quitting smoking, everyone acts like it’s this impossible feat that only the strongest-willed can achieve. So is quitting really that hard? Let’s dive into the topic and explore.

The Addiction

It all stems from nicotine addiction- one of the most powerful addictions known to man. Nicotine interacts with our brain chemistry causing a release of dopamine – commonly known as ‘the happy chemical’ which ultimately leads to the feeling of pleasure and euphoria after a puff of smoke. Dopamine is also responsible for regulating emotions, attention span and regulation many other necessary functionalities in human body.

Nicotine dependence is both psychological and physical, making withdrawal symptoms vary from person-to-person; generally heavier smokers may experience strong physical cravings and moderate smokers can feel discomfort or irritability while trying quit stop smoking. There are many ways people tackle nicotine addiction such therapy sessions , group support system , over-the-counter medications etc yet its first few days or weeks could cause intense feelings ranging anywhere from extreme anger to crying spells . As per experts treating heavy smoker’s detoxification process may last longer duration compared to lighter smokers .

Triggers & Habitual Nature Of Smoking

Aside from nicotine addiction, there are numerous psychological triggers associated with smoking too: stress at work might make someone reach out for cigarette packs inevitably due favor comfort they receive , social setting among other places where tobacco users find solace triggering mindsets thus attaching emotions around these potential triggers .

Smoking has become an integral part of daily routine habits ;reading newspaper,sipping coffee during tea session or even binging Netflix movies would make a perfect moment with cigarette accompaniment for enjoyment. It’s said that when habits form they create neural pathways in brain forcing the body to compulsively repeat routines even though we might not actually want or need them.

Physiology

Smoking also affects the body’s physiology which can lead to dependence and withdrawal symptoms during attempts to quit. Nicotine stimulates receptors that activate certain parts of the neurological system, specifically called ‘sympathetic nervous system’ ultimately responsible for keeping heart rate elevated causing signs of stress . Conversely , nicotine withdrawl symptoms resulting in neurobiological acclamments could have a reverse impact on bodily functionalities like blood pressure, pulse rate & sleep patterns ;adequately stressing an individual who planned to stop smoking .

So it’s fair enough when people say quitting is easier said than done!

Smoke-Cessation Programs

The fact is there are several programs supported by health experts recommending different ways for individuals looking forward to step their feet off this addiction; nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), counseling combined with appropriate medication such as bupropion etc., group supports and personalized tracking mechanisms helping keep count of positive progress has all been proven effective smoke-cessation options , yet..quitting remains difficult phenomenally

To support these hypotheses there are many statistics around smoking cessation:

1.) More than half of those smoker trying quit experience relapses within six-month period after ceasing

2.) Sufferers experiencing intense mood swings, cravings increased weight loss can persist upto few weeks after stopping cigarettes where as severe cases require medical interventions from professional practitioners

3.) Persistent negative consequences such as chronic diseases cause smokers attempt quit but less than half remain successful in their endeavors although some continue making multiple efforts

Let’s face it: Trying out all kinds successful methods requires sticking up with personal motivative factors towards ‘smoke-abstinence’ through-out journey and be willing execute life-style changes including following both healthy diet and regular body exercise programs.

Changing Habits

You can’t talk about quitting smoking without addressing the habitual nature of it. It’s not just a physical addiction, but also an ingrained part of daily life for many smokers. Breaking the habit requires finding new ways to cope with stress, boredom or even simply fidgeting . For example , if you typically smoke first thing in the morning while sipping on coffee then consideration could be given to going for morning walks instead trying out relaxing music therapy inducive yoga sessions etc.

Without positive reinforcement and consistency, old habits are hard to kick off so make its important imbibe change-making skills into your existing everyday routine consistently

Social Pressures & Smoking Culture

Let’s face it: smoking is often embedded in our society as a norm- group gathering usually has cigarette packs roaming around available among other recreational activities including drinking booze et cetera even though each one will have personal preferences by shirking away from cigarettes ! Social pressure may cause immense difficulty overcoming general societal outlooks around tobacco culture thereby making abstinence more difficult .

5 WAYS TOWARDS SMOKE ABSTINENCE PROVEN SUCCESSFUL FOR MILLIONS :-

1.) Creating Introspective goals leading towards long-term cessation from smoking

2.) Manage cravings using tools such like nicotine gums, patches etc support groups which tend gear morale combating temporary craving periods.

3.) Regular Medication controlling neuro responses leading towards continuous fight against nicotine dependency

4.) Long-term Approach: Committing oneself 24 months onwards where relapse rate drops significantly

5,) Incorporating Healthy-Life Style Changes (proper diet supplemented by exercise regime ) combined with socializing routes -trips involving outdoor activities limiting exposure situations induce urges both benefiting health-wise ensures longevity /well-being whilst eliminating temptations .

Success rates differ from individual-to-individual based upon psychological makeup; symptomatology present ;support system comprising close family , friends and healthcare providers ;surrounding environmental triggers.

In conclusion, quitting smoking is a difficult feat but not one that can’t be accomplished with practice and preparation to incorporate healthy behavioral changes into our daily lives . Different methods, programs, intervention with or without medication are available & choosing suitable ones which complements desire for a healthier lifestyle will ensure success gradually over sustained periods.