Chain Smoking and Depression

Am I the only one out there who smokes more when Im depressed, and gets more depressed each year during the holidays?     I've been a smoker for almost 15 years, and I used to average almost two packs of cigarettes a day, but I've felt so low lately, that my chain smoking has gotten outta hand. I've been smoking at least 3 packs a day everyday since I spent Thanksgiving by myself again and yesterday I started having more trouble breathing last night. Sometimes its like my cigarettes are my only friends, I just feel so alone.

[mammo]

You are definitely not alone!  The holidays makes everything feel so much worse, it can be a very sad time for many.  People who smoke find comfort in smoking, but as I'm sure you're aware, you are setting yourself up for serious health problems down the road.  If you could see how my husband has to live as a result of smoking (stopped 25 years ago) you'd never light up again.  Your breathing problems may be related to the smoking or it could be anxiety, so a trip to see your doctor is needed. There are so many who spend the holidays alone, which is sad, but just try to make the best of it....I know it's easier said than done.  Maybe choose this time to start working on YOU, getting yourself some help with the depression and to stop smoking.  You could start the new year working at getting your life back together, and being happier.  We're always here to talk and support you, so feel free to talk with us so you know you're not alone. I do wish you all the very best, and start working on YOU!  Take care.

[free3667]

To answer your question I would say no.  A lot of people find relief from stress by smoking. It does make you feel relaxed just when you need it. Now I am an ex smoker so I can feel for you. I bet I only smoked when I felt bad. I certainly did not enjoy the taste of a cigarette. So you have to ask yourself, how do I replace the habit with something that gives me the same satisfaction. While for me to say just quit smoking is being unrealistic. I would say start with getting your depression under control. Make an appt to see a therapist or even your physician. He may be able to put you on something that can help. One medicine that actually would help is Wellbutrin. It not only works on depression, but its also used as an aid to quit smoking.  Another route is find what are your triggers for this depression. Is it being lonely? Family? or lack of? Holidays? Whatever it is you will need to find alternative ways to cope in a more positive way. Yes a therapist can help you with this. There are many techniques for stress management like meditation, using imagery, relaxing to music, massage therapy and so on. You certainly need to take a step to address your issues. Your body is warning you.  You will eventually find that cigarettes are only a crutch. One that you can replace with if your willing to do so. Best of luck my friend for it is not easy, but the effort is well worth it. God Bless

[missmary81]

Thanks for the encouraging words of support. I made it through the holidays, and I have half a dozen empty cartons of cigarettes to prove it - but Im actually really glad they are over. Im trying to cut back down to only two packs a day for new years, which is better I suppose, but now I just need to get a better game plan for trying to manage my depression

[Hope1992]

Yea, chain smoking is totally how i get through christmas too...  Its totally normal for the holidays to get you down, glad to hear you are doing better.