Smoking to relieve work-related stress?
It’s an illusion, which may seem like a temporary mind lifter – doesn’t help in the long run and impacts health.
Long working hours have become a norm in various industries, with professionals dedicating extended periods to their jobs to meet the demands of a competitive market. As men spend more time at work, the stress levels associated with high-performance expectations, tight deadlines, and the constant need to prove oneself in the professional sphere can become overwhelming.
Smoking, for some, turns into a habit for relieving stress, providing a way to cope with the pressure that builds up throughout the workday.
Smoking: From Habit To An Addiction
Concerning this, the direct connection between work stress and smoking still remains uncertain.
Yet, men working over 50 hours a week are more than twice as likely to smoke compared to those with regular working hours.
Also, working long hours makes it more likely for ex-smokers to start again, lowers the chance of smokers quitting, and makes regular smokers smoke more.
Besides this, many men practice smoking whenever they feel stressed, anxious, or a bit nervous.
At some workplaces, taking breaks during work hours for smoking might seem like a way for people to socialize and connect over a common habit. This social side of smoking can make it hard for individuals to stop smoking because they worry about being left out or missing chances to network with colleagues.
Because of these, eventually, Smoking became a habit, often perceived as a means of relaxation. But, in reality, it turns out to be an addiction.
Smoking is one form of Tobacco, which contains nicotine—a highly addictive substance, which triggers the release of dopamine in the brain, inducing pleasure and reinforcing the desire to smoke.
Besides Nicotine, other harmful components that cigarette contains include carbon monoxide, tar, formaldehyde, arsenic, and thousands of other toxic chemicals, which pose severe health risks.
Impact Of Smoking On Health
Smoking is really bad for your health. It has a negative impact on health as follows:
- Respiratory issues
- Cardiovascular Diseases like heart attacks
- Cancer Risk
- Reduced Immune Function
- Type 2 Diabetes
- Fertility issues
- Premature Aging: Premature wrinkles, sagging skin, and a dull complexion.
Break The Cycle of Health Complications with Dr Mehta’s
Quitting smoking is hard as it’s addictive. When trying to stop, it often results in symptoms such as irritability, cravings, and difficulty concentrating. However, develop healthier coping mechanisms for a healthier journey.
When you find yourself having a weak immune system and risk of type 2 diabetes, consult Dr Mehta’s physician to avoid further potential health complications that arise because of smoking.