How to cope with smoking cravings?

Daniel Petrov, a narcologist and the chief physician of the rehabilitation center of Dr. Isaev's Double Diagnosis Clinic, told Moslenta the ways to cope with smoking cravings.

"Nicotine addiction is one of the most serious addictions, it is difficult to treat. First, nicotine is involved in many biochemical processes of our body and by using it, we interfere in these processes, which causes addiction on a biochemical level. Secondly, it is highly psychologically addictive. Thirdly, cigarettes are legally available," said the specialist.

The doctor stated that psychotherapy is of primary importance in treating any addiction. At the same time, nicotine replacement medications should not be disregarded: they allow to reduce the craving for cigarettes at the first stage. However, the doctor warned that the effect of such drugs is short-term, it takes one to two months to take them.

"There are also many patented methods of treating nicotine addiction: NLP, acupuncture, hypnosis. By and large, if the patient has an attitude toward treatment and getting rid of a bad habit, these techniques can help achieve a positive result," the expert suggested self-help methods.

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