Why is it so difficult to stop?

Nicotine is highly addictive.

When you think of all the reasons not to smoke, it seems bizarre that anyone would continue with such an expensive, dirty, unhealthy habit.

Only one reason, perhaps, could possibly override all the good reasons to quit and that is addiction. Quite simply, nicotine is one of the most addictive substances a human can take into their system.

Nicotine works by stimulating the central nervous system, increasing the body's heart rate, blood pressure and metabolism. When you take a drag of a cigarette, you will experience the effects of nicotine in under eight seconds. Nicotine is one of the fastest-acting poisons there is.

When inhaled nicotine also briefly releases the body from craving, while reinforcing the need to smoke. Each cigarette smoked reinforces the craving for the next one. It's a vicious circle but it can be broken.

Content thanks to YouthHealthNE authors.

Find out about how to quit smoking.

Find out more about addiction.

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