I've talked about (and blogged about) how addiction works - both the physical and behavioral components. Anyone who is trying to stop smoking must understand the nature of addiction in smoking. They must also have a grasp on any underlying factors that might cause them to pick up that cigarette. Perhaps, they struggle with depression or have some kind of emotional baggage that continues to project smoking as a viable alternative or escape from this unsettling circumstance.The feeling of satisfaction found with smoking can have a profound influence on a person's psyche. When all else is falling apart, smokers can always count on that old friend to provide a calming oasis in the middle of their troubles. But this begs the question which comes first, the enjoyment or the addiction? It's the old chicken and the egg argument.
Well, scientists in London published their research on this very topic in Drug and Alcohol Dependence. They looked at the enjoyment of smoking versus the urges to smoke as predictors for successful smoking cessation. They surveyed 2,257 smokers. Enjoyment and strength of urges were assessed, as was smoking status, quit attempts and quit success. The results showed that only enjoyment of smoking predicted whether a smoker would actually attempt to quit or not; while the strength of urges predicted whether the quit attempt would be successful.
This provides insight for us to are trying to help people stop smoking. By addressing the "enjoyment" part of the equation, we can help motivate people to journey toward a quit attempt. Then, once they choose to quit, we then need to help them face down the urges to smoke. I would imagine, every former smoker will tell you this is how they went about the process of smoking cessation. They first had to have a reason that was greater than their enjoyment and then, they had to overcome the urges. It seems like a relatively simple formula, I know. But don't some smokers get overwhelmed with the prospect of quitting. Don't they "overthink" it sometimes and then relapse?
The message seems pretty clear and simple. Anyone can quit if they follow this formula. The key though, is to follow it. So, pass this formula on to somebody you know who smokes. They'll be glad you did.
