Quit smoking depression how long?

Are you wondering how long it takes for depression to go away after quitting smoking? Well, grab a seat and let’s dive deeper into this topic.

The Struggle Is Real

Quitting smoking is no easy feat. In fact, most smokers struggle with kicking the habit for years before they finally commit to trying their best to quit once and for all. It can be especially tough when you start feeling depressed as a result of quitting.

Here we will discuss some points that will help answer your question on ‘Quit Smoking Depression How Long?’

What Causes Depression After Quitting Smoking?

First things first, let’s go over why people tend to feel so down in the dumps after giving up cigarettes:

  • Nicotine withdrawal: Your body craves nicotine because it has become dependent on its presence.
  • Changes in brain chemistry: If you have been smoking regularly for an extended period of time, your brain may be used to functioning at a certain level due to nicotine intake.
  • Lifestyle changes: Giving up tobacco means altering several routines including social activities or atmosphere which can trigger feelings of loneliness or sadness.

So now that we know what causes depressive symptoms after quitting, how long should one expect them to last?

When Will I Feel Better After Quitting?

The answer is – IT DEPENDS!

Many factors come into play including:

  • Duration & frequency of use
  • Fitness level
  • Gender
  • Age
  • Genetic resilience

Generally speaking, however expecting symptoms lasting less than 6 months seems reasonable.

That being said read on further below regarding resilience mechanisms that make any duration estimation somewhat easier.

Resilience Mechanisms

If there was ever any doubt about how much effect mental state has over physical matters, put those doubts aside now! Here are some natural steps anyone can take towards lessening the impacts from anxiety/depression:

  • Exercise! Exercise has been shown to have significant effects on mental states. It increases endorphins in your body (which make you feel good) and helps keep nicotine cravings under wraps.
  • A change of scenery often proves helpful, as being outside stimulates an individual’s release of serotonin which lifts their mood.
  • Mindfulness meditation may spawn a calming effect that can put the mind and emotions at peace.

Other Helpful Tips

Apart from resilience mechanisms, other tips will help considerably when going through this phase:

Tip Type Tip
Mind Engage in activities like reading books or participating in intellectually stimulating conversations
Body Abstain from caffeine as it might exacerbate symptoms. Prioritize sleep over anything else. Eat healthily – remember: you are what you eat!
Social Circle Spend time with individuals who uplift your spirit & avoid those likely to trigger feelings of sadness

Professional Help

When all else fails, seeking professional help is often necessary for some people experiencing severe depression post-quitting. Seeking medical attention should be considered if after 6 months any signs persist.

Ergo the idea here isn’t just to wait out negative feelings; instead it is crucial we take steps towards bettering ourselves internally before embarking upon long-term goals concerning quitting smoking!

In Conclusion

In conclusion dealing with depressive symptoms when quitting smoking varies depending on several factors including biological resilence, age etc., but generally speaking expect these symptoms to last less than 6months . Remember that there are practical steps anyone can take towards overcoming depression/anxiety during this difficult period without resorting solely on medication or substance (except for prescribed use ú‿ù)

Remember Resilience doesn’t come easily but outcomes always seem worth fighting for 🙂

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