Smoking an mental illness
If you have a mental illness you know how high the smoking rates are and how quitting is extra tough. For example 90% of people with bipolar disorder (manic depression) are smokers. Anyone else out there had to deal with this challenge?
I've had GAD for as long as I remember and been treated for anxiety/depression.For so long smoking has been my crutch so being off them is difficult but it certainly helps with my self esteem,still doing it one day or hour(!)at a time.Hope you are,all well.
I read stats on that - people that are highly strung or labelled with mood disorders have a high rate of smoking, maybe more susceptible to addiction, or simply trying to get by - not sure, but I think quitting smoking is tough for everyone, like quitting any addiction...
try quit coffee, or coke, or chocolate or something you love - it is all tough, changing habits..
I sometimes feel really insecure since I have stopped smoking, and it is unlike my nature - I was confident and secure with who I was, but often feel I have lost a part of myself since giving up smoking, and just trying to make up for it and be aware of it.. similar to actually loosing a good friend or close partner..
Thanks to all who responded. Sasha hang in there my father had GAD and depression and it sucks.
Smoking depression and anxiety have gone hand in hand for me since my early twenties I'm 44 now and 14days ago decided with the love and persistence of my daughter to give up once and for all. I am finding using the psychology, mindfulness and other therapies I have utilised for my mental health issues have provided a great foundation for staying on the smoke free pathway. There are times when my anxiety says light up and puff away but my image of my daughter throwing them in the bin says no way stinky daddy. The mental challenge is the toughest for me smoking was a plan b exist strategy I now choose plan A for living healthy and financially free and to hear my daughter say I love you and I am thankful you're my daddy keeps me going. Smoking and Mental Health don't have to live with each other, its great to be single and free.