Many people who smoke say they smoke to relieve stress, or smoke more when they are experiencing stress. People who have quit smoking say stress is the number one reason for relapse. Did you know? – Smoking does not actually relieve stress. In fact, it may even cause more tension and anxiety. read more
Of course, non smokers have the same stresses as everyone else, smokers and non smokers alike- but what they don't have to contend with in addition to all of the other stresses is the stress of the constant and nagging feeling of wanting or needing to have a cigarette all of the time, which can often develop into sheer panic and total stress if an abstention is enforced or continued. read more
Parrott AC(1). Author information: (1)Department of Psychology, University of East London, Great Britain. andy2@uel.ac.uk Comment in Am Psychol. 2000 Oct;55(10):1158-9. Am Psychol. 2000 Oct;55(10):1156-7. Am Psychol. 2000 Oct;55(10):1155-6. Smokers often report that cigarettes help relieve feelings of stress. read more
Smoking isn’t a long-term stress reliever. In the time it takes to smoke a cigarette, you could do something else that’s more effective—like take a short walk or try a relaxation exercise. Smoking doesn’t solve the problem that’s giving you stress. read more