Nicotine Dependence

Nicotine dependence affects nearly 24 million Americans. It can lead to unpleasant complications when left untreated. Fortunately, advanced registered nurse practitioner Stephanie Blanshan, ARNP, and the team at Resonance Psychiatry offer treatment for nicotine dependence to help you break this addictive habit. Schedule a telehealth evaluation at Resonance Psychiatry by phone or online today.

What is nicotine dependence?

Nicotine is one of the most addictive substances worldwide, making it difficult for many people to quit smoking or stop using other forms of nicotine, such as cigars, vaping, or pouches. 

Dependency means you struggle to stop using a harmful substance despite knowing it’s not good for you. Treatment at Resonance Psychiatry can help you overcome a nicotine dependence.

What are the symptoms of nicotine dependence?

Symptoms linked to nicotine dependence can include:

• Feeling like you need nicotine regularly
• Intense nicotine cravings
• Needing more and more nicotine for the same effects
• Not being able to quit using nicotine
• Withdrawal symptoms when quitting
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Trouble focusing

Examples of withdrawal symptoms may include restlessness, agitation, jitteriness, and similar unpleasant symptoms.

You might notice difficulty sleeping, chest tightness, dizziness, nausea, or headaches. Increased hunger, fatigue, and weight gain may also happen when you quit using nicotine, at least initially. 

What are the risk factors for nicotine dependence?

Nicotine dependence risk factors might include:

• Being exposed to nicotine at a young age
• Drinking alcohol
• Using illicit drugs
• Being around other people using nicotine
• Genetics
• Having another mental health condition
• Stress
• Trauma

Nicotine is highly addictive. In fact, the body can start becoming dependent on it after just one or two uses. 

How is nicotine dependence diagnosed?

The experts at Resonance Psychiatry diagnose your condition by completing a comprehensive mental health evaluation. They ask about your symptoms, lifestyle habits, and medications. They also discuss your: 

• Emotions 
• Moods 
• Behaviors 
• Withdrawal symptoms

Resonance Psychiatry offers genetic testing and lab tests that help screen for other concerns and determine how to best treat your condition. 

How is nicotine dependence treated?

Your personalized nicotine dependence treatment plan may consist of:

• Lifestyle changes
• Social support
• Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT)
• Medication management
• Behavioral therapy
• Stress management
• Mindfulness
• Weight management 

It’s helpful to eat a balanced diet, stay active, get enough sleep, and minimize stress. Form a strong social support network of family and friends.

Nicotine dependence treatment might take several weeks or longer. Working with the Resonance Psychiatry experts can increase your chance of long-term success. Follow up with the team for therapy or medication management when necessary to optimize your results.

Schedule a nicotine dependence evaluation at Resonance Psychiatry by calling the office or booking a telehealth appointment online today.