How stopping smoking can improve your mental and physical health

No Smoking Day is a great reason to consider stopping smoking altogether. Whether you’re fairly new to smoking or have been a smoker all your life, with the right support and treatment in place, you will be able to give up for good. In the blog post below, we look at how stopping smoking can benefit both your physical and mental health and the support that TALKWORKS can offer if you are trying to quit. 

How is smoking connected to your mental health?

A lot of people do not realise that smoking can have a significant impact on both your mental and physical health. Smoking rates among adults with depression is twice as high as those who do not suffer from depression, and research has shown that smoking can also increase anxiety and tension. While there is clearly a connection between smoking and mental health difficulties, a lot of smokers do not know this, and continue to smoke without being aware of the impact it is having on their mental, as well as physical, health. 

For many who smoke socially or regularly, smoking can be seen as something that is enjoyable and pleasurable. In the long term though, it can lead to the dopamine supply (which helps us feel pleasure) decreasing, resulting in smokers becoming reliant on cigarettes and smoking more as a result. Smoking is also often used as a form of stress-relief and a way to relax. This feeling is a temporary feeling however, and long term smoking can actually cause increased stress and anxiety. This is because people who smoke regularly can become addicted to nicotine and reliant on it. The cravings that nicotine brings with it can lead to heightened anxiety and greater stress due to dependency, which can have a significant impact on your mental health, particularly if you are trying to give up.

What are the benefits of stopping smoking?

There are so many ways that both your physical and mental health are likely to benefit if you do decide to quit. Not only will you have increased energy and healthier lungs, you’ll also feel calmer and more positive by taking the steps to look after yourself. Smoking increases the likelihood of depression, anxiety and stress, and you’ll therefore feel happier and healthier in yourself, with a better quality of life once you’ve made the decision to quit. 

What help is available?

If you have stopped smoking or are thinking of stopping, but are worried about the side effects, the TALKWORKS Talking Health team can help. Our therapists can work with you to understand the difficulties you are experiencing and help find a treatment option that’s right for you. We’ll work with you on the emotional challenges that come with stopping smoking, including managing any stress, anxiety or low mood that can result from this lifestyle change. We can also arrange specialist support, such as services like One Small Step, who can work with you to help you transform your life and give up smoking for good. 

Remember, it’s never too late to stop and you don’t need to do this by yourself. Take the first steps to getting back on track by self-referring to TALKWORKS online or by calling  0300 555 3344.