Addiction to cigarettes is one of the most powerful addictions to overcome. Although nicotine is often cited as the source of the addiction, there doesn't seem to be enough evidence that supports it. Ask any non-smoker whether they still experience cravings. No matter how long an ex-smoker has quit, he or she will almost invariably say that a craving is triggered from time to time when they are performing a specific activity. This is evidence that nicotine is not the only variable involved in this addiction.

So what is exactly at work here? Smoking causes a physical and emotional addiction. Nicotine completely leaves the body within a few days after stopping. But research shows that the area of the brain that governs drives is permanently changed by addiction. The brain interprets the addictive substance or activity as necessary for survival. The four most important drives are hunger, thirst, sleep and sex. When addiction is involved, any of these drives that are not being met will result in cravings for the addictive substance or behavior. The next time you get hungry, just try not to think about food. The same can be said about a smoker when he or she goes without a cigarette for a few hours; the thought of smoking will become an obsession until their "need" is met.

Smoking cigarettes is one of the few addictive substances that are used 10, 20 or more times a day, depending upon how many cigarettes are smoked per day. Smokers often smoke during specific times, and during specific activities. Non-smokers will also tell you that they often crave cigarettes during stressful situations. So the act of smoking often becomes associated with that activity.

Any smoker will tell you that they tend to smoke more when they are sleepy. Any smoker will also tell you that smoking suppresses their hunger. And most smokers enjoy a smoke after sex. Under stressful situations, the body requires more nutrients and sleep. The area of the brain that governs drives becomes more active. Because the area of the brain that governs drives is affected by their addiction, smokers often report smoking more cigarettes when they are stressed. This increase in smoking when certain drives are not being met further supports that addiction is linked to drives.

The best way to deal with addiction is to get support, and make lifestyle changes that include a better diet and better stress management. If you are concerned about your smoking habit and the damage it is doing to your health, a doctor or an alternative health practitioner can help you create a smoking cessation plan that suits your lifestyle.

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