$Unique_ID{BRK00769}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Personality Changes While Quitting Smoking}
$Subject{smoking withdrawal Community Social behavior behaviors lifestyle
lifestyles Nicotine restlessness concentrate irritability hostility dullness
sleepiness weight gain smoke}
$Volume{Q-23}
$Log{
The Effects of Smoking*0007301.scf
Indirect Problems Caused by Smoking*0007302.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Personality Changes While Quitting Smoking


------------------------------------------------------------------------------

QUESTION:  Some of my friends have quit smoking merely by stopping.  Now they
are at me to give up the habit as well, but I am having a tough time.  It
seems to change my whole personality and the way I feel and work.  Is my case
unusual, or have other people felt the same way while quitting?

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ANSWER:  Your case is more the rule than unusual.  Your friends probably had
similar feelings; if not, they really had it easy.  Nicotine is an addictive
chemical, and when you stop, you may experience withdrawal symptoms that can
explain the way you feel.  They can include a feeling of restlessness,
inability to concentrate, irritability and feelings of hostility.  In addition
to craving a cigarette, you may find your sleep patterns have been altered,
and a feeling of dullness or sleepiness during the day.  And then there is
that dreaded weight gain.  All are signs of nicotine withdrawal.  But be of
stout heart.  Though these symptoms vary from person to person, they are most
intense during the first week after an abrupt halt to smoking, and gradually
decline during the second and third week.  By day 21 after quitting, few
people have any remaining problems, except for an occasional urge.  The
greater your habit was, the more intense are the symptoms of withdrawal.
However, you can manage to stop smoking by will power alone, if you stay on
guard during the moments when cigarette smoking was a part of your life style,
like after meals or bedtime.  Your little support group can do much to help
you, if you consider their concern and listen to their advice.

----------------

The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.