Is the physical addiction of cigarettes started by a mental addiction?

Question

Anyone addicted to cigarettes will claim it's a physical addiction, and I'm sure it is. But the process of becoming addicted seems to differ among everyone I know. I've smoked more than enough cigarettes to become addicted, yet have never had a craving before. I've met other people who share the same situation, and one once suggested that we just "don't have addictive personalities".

Do you have to have a predisposition towards mental addictions to even begin a physical addiction to cigarettes? Or is the whole process purely physical, and some of us non-addicts are just weirdos?

Answer 1

watchthepulse, Cigarette addiction can be hard to control. Many everyday people have lost jobs, homes, family, and loved ones simply because they could not beat thier cigarette habit. I suggest you find some help. I found a site that has addiction information and a list of addiction treatment centers so you can help. http://www.addictionselfhelp.com



Get healthy!

Answer 2

It's a combination of both like coffee.  You need the cup of java in the morning to wake up but it's also part of the routine and out of habit.  

There is a physical addiction that starts pretty quick once you smoke with any regularity.  The psychological one comes along as you get the habit of having a smoke at certain times be it after so many hours, after class, after an event that is stressful, etc.  If you are an addictive personality, the psychological addiction is strong and when it's combined with the weaker physical one, smokes can be tough to quit.  Of course, that's a generality.  The physical addictiveness varies from person to person, too.

Ooops - smoking starts by deciding it's something to try, then try again.  Why someone wants to try depends on the person.  The addictions come later.