Written by: Josselyn Rafael
ABSTRACT
Vaping and smoking have become prevalent habits, especially among young adults, and are often associated with both physical and mental health issues. This study aims to explore the psychological effects of vaping and smoking, focusing on their link to mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and stress. By analyzing addiction patterns and the psychological coping mechanisms used by individuals, this research delves into how nicotine dependence can exacerbate mental health problems and how people use vaping or smoking as a way to manage emotional difficulties. The study also examines the impact of social and environmental factors on initiating and continuing these habits. Understanding the connection between addiction and mental health is crucial in developing effective
prevention and intervention strategies. Findings from this research highlight the need for comprehensive approaches that address both the psychological and physical aspects of nicotine addiction.
INTRODUCTION
“Vaping simulates smoking. Battery-powered vape devices create an aerosol that looks like water vapor but contains nicotine, flavoring, and more than 30 other chemicals. The aerosol is inhaled into the lungs where the nicotine and chemicals cross into the bloodstream” (Texas Department of State Health Services, n.d.).
In recent years, vaping and smoking have emerged as widespread behaviors, particularly among adolescents and young adults. While the physical health risks of tobacco have long been established, the rise of vaping has raised new concerns about its impact on both physical and mental well-being. Nicotine, the primary addictive substance in both traditional cigarettes and most vaping products,
affects the brain's chemistry, contributing not only to physical dependence but also to psychological issues such as anxiety, depression, and stress. The psychological effects of nicotine use, particularly its role in addiction, are often intertwined with mental health struggles. Many individuals turn to vaping or smoking as a coping mechanism, seeking relief from stress or emotional difficulties. However, this creates a complex cycle in which nicotine addiction can further exacerbate mental
health problems. Moreover, social influences, peer pressure, and environmental factors play significant roles in the initiation and continuation of these habits. Understanding the psychological effects of vaping and smoking is crucial for developing more effective intervention strategies. This paper aims to explore the connection between nicotine addiction and mental health, shedding light on
how individuals cope with addiction and how these habits affect their overall psychological well-being. By examining both the physiological and psychological dimensions of vaping and smoking, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of addiction and mental health.
METHODS
The method used in this research is a case study, which according to Cherry (2024) is "A case study is an in-depth study of one person, group, or event". In a case study, nearly every aspect of the subject's life and history is analyzed to seek patterns and causes of behavior. Everything in this study is based on certain events happening.
RESULT
“Addiction is defined as a lack of control over engaging in activities or using substances to the point where it becomes harmful” (NHS, n.d.). Addiction, particularly to substances like nicotine through vaping and smoking, has profound psychological impacts. One of the most notable effects is the increase in anxiety and depression. People often turn to smoking or vaping as a way to manage stress
or negative emotions, seeking immediate relief. However, while nicotine may temporarily ease these feelings, its long-term effects can worsen mental health conditions. Nicotine impacts neurotransmitters in the brain that regulate mood, and over time, this can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and depression, creating a cycle of dependency where individuals continually rely on the substance to manage their emotions.
The brain’s reward system is also significantly affected by addiction. Nicotine alters the brain’s release of dopamine, the neurotransmitter responsible for pleasure and reward. This creates a powerful association between the substance and feelings of well-being, reinforcing the behavior. Over time, the brain’s natural ability to regulate pleasure without nicotine diminishes, causing the person to become more dependent on the substance to experience positive feelings. This rewiring of the brain makes quitting extremely difficult, as withdrawal symptoms and cravings are heightened by the body’s adaptation to nicotine.
Addiction also leads to noticeable behavioral changes. Individuals often become irritable or anxious when they cannot access nicotine, leading to impulsive actions or a greater reliance on the substance. This dependency can result in mood swings and social withdrawal, as the person prioritizes smoking or vaping over other activities. Over time, these behaviors can interfere with personal and professional
responsibilities, further entrenching the individual in their addiction and creating a pattern of avoidance and reliance on nicotine to cope with everyday stressors.
Coping mechanisms, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness, offer promising ways to manage nicotine addiction. CBT helps individuals identify negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to their addiction, allowing them to replace these with healthier coping strategies. Mindfulness techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing, have also been effective in
reducing cravings and managing stress, providing long-term benefits for those trying to quit. These approaches are crucial in helping individuals break the cycle of addiction by addressing both the psychological and emotional factors that drive nicotine use.
Finally, social influences and long-term mental health consequences play significant roles in the development and continuation of addiction. Peer pressure, societal norms, and family environments can all contribute to the initiation of smoking or vaping habits. The perception that these behaviors are acceptable or even beneficial can lead individuals to start using nicotine, often without fully
understanding the long-term consequences. Over time, the cumulative effect of addiction on mental health—such as increased anxiety, depression, and emotional instability—underscores the need for early intervention and comprehensive support systems to help individuals overcome their dependence and improve their overall mental health.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, nicotine addiction through vaping and smoking has far-reaching psychological effects, including increased anxiety and depression. Nicotine's manipulation of neurotransmitters and the brain’s reward system strengthens the cycle of dependency, making it difficult for individuals to quit despite the harm to their mental and physical health. The behavioral changes linked to addiction further isolate individuals, leading to a dependency that disrupts personal and social responsibilities. However, coping mechanisms such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness offer effective strategies for managing addiction, helping individuals break the cycle and improve their emotional well-being. Additionally, addressing social influences and raising awareness of the long-term mental health consequences of nicotine use are critical in preventing addiction and promoting recovery. By providing early interventions and comprehensive support, individuals can overcome addiction and achieve better mental health outcomes.
WORKS CITED
National Health Service. (n.d.). Addiction: What is it? NHS.
Cherry, K. (2024, January 18). How to write a psychology case study. Verywell Mind.
Texas Department of State Health Services. (n.d.). What is vaping?
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