Tobacco and nicotine can be notoriously difficult to quit. When nicotine is introduced to the body, the chemical activates reward circuits in the brain, which generate a release of dopamine and other “feel-good” neurotransmitters. This neurological process disrupts the natural functions of the body’s rhythm and reward system. Due to these actions, nicotine is said to be just as addictive as alcohol, heroin and even cocaine.
Those who smoke may need nicotine dependence treatment to help quit smoking. You can be addicted to compounds in tobacco that act as stimulants. Therefore, while many smokers often want to quit, they also experience intense withdrawal symptoms when they try. Plus, each case of nicotine dependence can be unique.
Recently, many smokers — especially younger adults and teens — have traded tobacco for e-cigarettes, vaping or nicotine pouches. Unfortunately, these products have not been well-studied enough to determine their safety. E-cigarettes and vapes can contain substances beyond nicotine that could be just as, if not more, harmful than tobacco. Additionally, many products that claim to be nicotine-free have been found to contain nicotine. Likewise, smokeless tobacco pouches can be addictive, are related to mouth cancers and may even elevate the risks of heart disease.
Concerning Facts About Tobacco Use
Without question, smoking and tobacco are related to major health concerns. Unfortunately, many people realize the risks but still struggle to stop using tobacco. Take a look at a few alarming facts about smoking and tobacco use:
- Using tobacco is the number-one cause of avoidable disease and death. Smokers face greater risks of heart and respiratory disease and many types of cancer.
- A smoker faces lung cancer risks that are 15 to 30 times as high as people that don’t smoke.
- Roughly 85% of the different forms of lung cancer are known to affect smokers.
- About 85% of lung cancers occur in smokers.
- Roughly 30% of all deaths caused by cancer in the U.S. in a year are directly tied to smoking.
Why Choose SMHWI for a Smoking Cessation Program in Arizona
If you have been unsuccessful with nicotine patches, nicotine gum or other forms of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), nicotine rehab with Scottsdale Mental Health and Wellness Institute (SMHWI) can help. SMHWI takes a multifaceted approach to help individuals overcome nicotine addiction. We provide professional counseling that gives you both coping skills and helpful tools to help quit smoking. Your psychiatrist devises a personalized strategy and prescribes medication for smoking cessation if needed.
For patients that need more flexibility, online treatment for nicotine dependence with SMHWI offers a convenient option. If the issue is more complex than nicotine dependence or medication is needed, in-person appointments may be more effective. Everyone can have different needs. Therefore, a treatment plan for nicotine addiction varies on a case-by-case basis.
SMHWI has years of experience in providing psychiatric treatment for chemical dependency and other mental health concerns to both adolescents and adults. We provide a list of services to clients to help them overcome some of the most challenging situations, including nicotine addiction. If you would like to know more about nicotine rehab, contact us to discuss your options.