Overcoming the challenges of nicotine addiction, whether you are a heavy smoker or consider yourself a social smoker, is a daunting task. While the detrimental health effects of smoking are well-documented, breaking the addictive cycle is often easier said than done. If you've made several attempts to quit independently without success, it's time to seek professional assistance without further delay.
Nicotine, a key component in tobacco, gradually alters the brain's structure, contributing to its highly addictive nature. Initially providing feelings of relaxation and arousal, nicotine becomes increasingly necessary to alleviate negative withdrawal symptoms such as restlessness, irritability, and reduced concentration.
Despite the serious long-term health risks associated with smoking, including cancers, heart diseases, stroke, and respiratory problems, its impact can extend into various aspects of life.
Indications that smoking may be significantly affecting your life include:
A strong desire to reduce or quit smoking with unsuccessful attempts.
Devoting considerable time to thinking about or craving smoking.
Reduced productivity or difficulty fulfilling responsibilities at work, home, or school.
Strained relationships with increasing arguments about smoking.
Whether or not these effects resonate with you, if you find it challenging to quit independently and are eager to regain control without relapsing, our Someone Health psychologists are here to help. Smoking is one of the most common addictions, and our psychologists have extensive experience in employing effective strategies to facilitate cessation. The treatment for smoking addiction, commonly known as smoking cessation, involves various strategies to help individuals quit smoking and overcome nicotine dependence. Here are some common approaches used in the treatment of smoke addiction:
Behavioural Therapy: This approach focuses on identifying and changing behaviours associated with smoking. It helps individuals develop coping mechanisms, set goals for quitting, and address triggers that lead to smoking.
Lifestyle Changes: Adopting a healthier lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management, can contribute to overall well-being and support smoking cessation.
Motivational Enhancement: Setting and reinforcing personal motivations to quit smoking can be a powerful aspect of treatment
Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Learning techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or mindfulness can help manage stress and reduce the urge to smoke.
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Frequently asked questions
Is telehealth right for me if I'm having a mental health crisis?
Telehealth works well for mild to moderate mental health concerns. It is not designed for a mental health crisis or an acute episode. Some examples are:
- Psychosis (losing touch with reality, or having thoughts and beliefs that are not based in reality)
- A manic episode (racing thoughts, little need for sleep, and taking big risks)
- A severe eating disorder that needs medical care
- A serious risk of harming yourself or someone else
Because we are a telehealth service, we cannot manage these situations safely. If you are in crisis, please get help in person.
If you are having thoughts of suicide and need urgent support, see your GP. They can assess you and refer you to the right in-person service.
If you feel at risk of acting on these thoughts, or you cannot keep yourself safe, call 000 or go to your nearest emergency department. You can also call Lifeline any time on 13 11 14.
Once you are safe and you have the support you need in person, we welcome you to book with us for ongoing care.
How will I know the therapy is working for me?
It will not always be obvious and it could be gradual. But when you start feeling better, then that means that the therapy is working.You'll also be able to see things more clearly as you progress with your talk therapy. Healing, however, is not always so clear-cut. There will always be ups and downs. If that happens, you can talk to your psychologist about your progress and be open with what you're feeling.
Is online therapy as effective as in-person therapy?
Are all your psychologists registered?
Australia has regulatory bodies to ensure we maintain consistent and high standards across the psychology profession.Yes. They are registered with the Psychology Board of Australia (PsyBA), listed with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra), and individually selected and monitored by Someone Health's expert clinical team.
How long does it take to see a psychologist?
It depends on the psychologist you choose and how your sessions are funded.Once you have signed up and we have verified your details, you can choose a psychologist and book a time that suits you. Availability varies by psychologist and funding option, and Find a psychologist shows each psychologist's next available appointment.
Can a psychologist prescribe medication?
Only your GP or a psychiatrist can prescribe medication.Medication can only be prescribed by medical doctors, which includes general practitioners (GPs) and psychiatrists.
If you need the services of a psychiatrist, please visit Call To Mind, a telehealth service specialising in psychiatry.