You have me stumped. I really don't know that smoking can cause anxiety. I believe the studies, because I have no information to dispute them. I found the opposite true though.
I was, at the end point, a three pack a day smoker, it gradually increased over twenty years. My desire to have a cigarette was often the cause of my anxiety, so in that way, I totally agree. When I couldn't have one as I wished, there was some anxiety which increased with time, the craving, if those two are connected. I certainly felt anxious.
They were the reason to stop, and think about something, or to just relax with a cup of coffee, or an alcoholic beverage at times. Both activities demanded a cigarette with them, it was mandatory!
I thought I relaxed more then, was more able to deal with situations. I started, in the army, by observing that others looked so relaxed when we took a break and thought I'd give it a try. It seemed to help with stress.
Having stopped smoking a good while ago, I feel no less anxious over the same things.
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Well, I am an ex-smoker, quit 17 years ago after smoking for about 27 years. I used to think that smoking made me feel less anxious, but I believe the opposite is true. When you think about it, when you have an addiction, there is constant anxiety about when you can get your next "fix." I never really tried that hard to quit because I didn't want to quit, but then I started looking at it as something that owned me. Wherever I went, especially in the last couple of years that I smoked, I had to figure out where I could smoke, and many times, even if it was 20 degrees below zero, the only place to smoke was outside. I wanted to be rid of that ball and chain, plus I was getting sinus infections and chronic bronchitis every time I turned around.
How did I do it? First of all, the mindset I had is what got me through - not wanting to be owned by this habit. Then, I was already taking Wellbutrin, which is the same thing as Zyban, which was being given to people to help them stop. When I was down to my last two cigarettes, I smoked them in the car on the way to my chiropractor to get an acupuncture treatment to help me quit. It was so much easier than I thought it would be and I could feel a sense of freedom in not having to cart those things around all the time or worry about offending people. After five days, I was pretty much over the hump and I haven't had another cigarette since. I can't stand the smell of them, even.
Now, I'm praying I don't end up with lung cancer anyway, but even if I do, I won't be sorry. I think the government should put its money where its mouth is and stop the subsidies for tobacco farming and just go ahead and make it illegal. Minnesota is now totally smoke-free in all buildings and it's so much more pleasant now to go out anywhere (except casinos) and not feel like you need a shower when you get out.
I never thought I'd be able to quit, but I did it - it's one of the best things I ever did!
Hey Judy!
Your story is amazing...there are so many people who want to quit and have such difficulties following through. I hear that it is a very strong addiction. You make such a good point about...the anxiety caused by getting your next fix of nicotine. It must have been something you constantly had to think about. My mother smoked...everywhere. She smoked in the bathtub...she smoked in bed...I was always afraid she would burn down the house one day. I watched her struggle with trying to quit smoking for...decades.
So...acupuncture and Wellbutrin did it for you?
I am so happy you did quit. Many kudos to you!
Thanks so much for sharing your experience. I hope other members do the same.