Why it’s so hard to quit smoking? Secret is in your brain

A small cigarette packet, which seems ordinary, actually takes a toll on the lives of millions of people. Read further on Dynamite News:

Post Published By: Sona Saini
Updated : 13 June 2025, 6:27 PM IST
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New Delhi: A small cigarette packet, which seems ordinary, actually takes a toll on the lives of millions of people. Every year, millions of people try to quit smoking, swear that "not anymore", but within a few days they again fall into the grip of the same smoke. The question is, why is it so difficult to quit smoking? Do people lack willpower or is there some other reason behind it?

Actually, the answer is hidden within our brain. Scientific research shows that cigarette addiction is not just a habit, but a deep neurological process, which involves our brain and its chemical balance.

Nicotine: The Most Dangerous Enemy

The main chemical present in cigarettes is nicotine, which is the biggest cause of addiction. As soon as a person takes a puff of cigarette, nicotine reaches the brain within just 10 seconds. After reaching there, it releases a chemical called dopamine. Dopamine is the same chemical that makes us feel happy, satisfied and relaxed. This is the reason why people are unable to quit it.

Harmful Effects Of Cigarettes

Smoking is not just a habit, but a slow poison that hollows out the body from inside. Every year millions of people around the world lose their lives due to tobacco and cigarette related diseases. Still people are unable to quit it. The reason for this is not just lack of willpower, but nicotine addiction, which grips the brain and body badly. Let us know how much harm cigarettes cause to the body and what are some effective ways to quit this habit.

Cigarette addiction is not just a habit (Source: Internet)

Cigarette addiction is not just a habit (Source: Internet)

Harmful Effects Of Smoking

Lung Damage

Cigarette smoke directly affects the lungs. It increases the risk of chronic bronchitis, emphysema and lung cancer manifold.

Heart Diseases

Cigarettes harden and narrow the arteries, increasing the risk of high blood pressure and heart diseases. Cigarettes are the main cause of heart attacks and strokes.

Risk Of Cancer

Harmful chemicals present in cigarettes such as tar, benzene and formaldehyde can cause cancer in different parts of the body. Mouth, throat, lungs, kidneys and bladder are most affected by cancer.

Effect On Fertility

Smoking reduces sperm count in men and reduces the ability to conceive in women.

Skin And Teeth Damage

Smoking causes early wrinkles on the face, yellowing of teeth and bad breath.

How To Get Rid Of Cigarette Addiction

Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT)

In this, the amount of nicotine is gradually reduced using nicotine gum, patch, inhaler or lozenge, so that the body does not get a shock and the addiction ends slowly.

Psychological Advice And Counseling

Sometimes cigarette addiction is associated with emotional problems. Stress and emotional causes can be identified and removed through counseling.

Meditation And Exercise

Regular meditation, yoga and exercise maintain mental balance and reduce the craving for nicotine.

Support Of Family And Friends

The support and understanding of loved ones can make this battle easier. When people stand with you, it becomes easier to bring about change.

Set A Goal

Decide a clear reason and date for when and why to quit. Write down the progress every day - this will motivate you.

Cigarettes may give relief for a few moments, but the damage hidden behind it can become a lifelong regret. The diseases it causes are not only life-threatening, but also eat away at your lifestyle and happiness. The good news is that it is possible to get rid of this addiction - with the right information, solutions and support. Remember, quitting cigarettes is like getting your life back - and this decision can be made today.

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