If you or someone you know is in crisis, contact the Military Crisis Line at 988 and press 1, or Text 838255. You can also call 911.
While some people may smoke to manage stress, tobacco does not actually decrease stress levels. People who smoke may experience temporary stress relief when they are using tobacco products, but regular consumption of nicotine can lead to brain changes, cause irritability and worsen symptoms of anxiety. Over time, repeated tobacco use can cause nicotine dependence which may result in mood fluctuations and daily stress.
If you smoke and are looking to manage stress, anxiety or depression, research shows that quitting smoking is the way to go. The symptoms you may feel when you first give up nicotine can make it challenging to quit for good, but nicotine replacement therapy can help reduce these symptoms. To learn more about the different nicotine replacement therapy options, check out this article.
Handling Stress
After a quit attempt, some people may replace tobacco use with other unhealthy behaviors that do not address the source of their stress and may make stress symptoms worse. Keep reading to learn some strategies to manage stress without tobacco.
|
Alternative Ways to Cope with Stress |
Explanation |
| Breathe |
Take a few slow, deep breaths – in through your nose, out through your mouth. You will feel your body start to relax. |
| Locate Your Stress |
Take a minute to figure out how stress affects your body. Where do you feel tension in your body? Finding ways to reduce that tension will also help your mental stress. A warm bath, a massage or stretching can help you release built-up tension. |
| Schedule III |
Drugs, substances or chemicals with moderate to low potential for physical and psychological dependence |
| Visualize |
Think of a place where you feel safe, comfortable and relaxed. Picture it as clearly as you can, including imagining what you would feel, hear and maybe even smell if you were in that relaxing place. Let yourself enjoy being there for a few minutes. |
| Exercise |
Being active sends out natural chemicals that help your mood and reduce your stress. Sometimes a short walk is all it takes to relieve stress. And walking is free! |
By quitting tobacco for good, you’ll be on your way to a healthier life. If you’re interested in resources to support you on your tobacco-free journey, start here.
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