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Why People Use Tobacco
Why People Use TobaccoBefore you can quit using tobacco, it is helpful to understand why people use it.Using tobacco is a complex behavior and people use it for different reasons. Many times, it’s a combination ofreasons that create a tobacco habit.First, there is the physical addiction to nicotine. Your body has become dependent on it.Second, there is the psychological or emotional dependence.You rely on smoking to cope with stress and other emotions in your daily life.Third, there is the social aspect. Using tobacco can be part of your routine when you are with other people.And fourth, it can be Environmental. You might live or work with other tobacco users. And their use may triggeryou to use.Together, these 4 different reasons form your habit of using tobacco and need to be considered in your plan toquit.The nicotine in tobacco is highly addictive. Within seconds of using tobacco, nicotine stimulates the brain’spleasure center.It makes you feel good.You may feel energized or stimulated.You may feel relaxed, but it is actually masking your body’s stressed response to nicotine. This false sense ofrelaxation may make you feel that you can better deal with anxiety, tension, anger or other emotions.As the level of nicotine in your body lowers so does that sense of pleasure. To regain that stimulation in thepleasure center in the brain, you want tobacco again.Emotionally, using tobacco can comfort you when you are stressed, nervous or upset.The longer you use tobacco, the more it is part of your everyday routine. You do it without thinking.“I would drink my coffee and smoke my cigarettes.”“When I would get in the car and it's time to smoke … it was just a routine.”“I'd put one out and then, you know, a couple of minutes later, I'd roll another one.”Or you live or are around people who smoke or use tobacco.Working on all four aspects together is the best way to be successful at quitting tobacco. Talk to yourhealthcare provider or cessation counselor about each aspect of your addiction.This program is for informational purposes only. Publisher disclaims all guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness,or suitability of this video for medical decision making. For all health related issues please contact your healthcare provider.VER59445B EN WhyPeopleUseTobacco.pdf© The Wellness NetworkPage 1 of 1
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Learn strategies to help manage the emotional triggers you might face while quitting tobacco.
Learn strategies to help you cope as you replace your habits and crave nicotine.
Understand the importance in having a support system to help you quit tobacco and to stay quit.
Learn ways to reward yourself in order to keep motivated and encouraged to remain nicotine-free.
