Quitting Smoking While Depressed
Smoking cessation is tough enough without adding depression to the mix. But it's certainly possible to handle both. Here are some tips for managing your depression while you kick your addiction to cigarettes:
Work with your doctors. Because of the interaction between smoking and medication, always let your doctors know how your efforts to stop smoking are going. Discuss possible stop-smoking aids, including nicotine replacement products or medications — such as bupropion (Zyban), which also acts as an antidepressant.
Get your depression under control. "People whose depression symptoms are stable and controlled are more able to successfully quit," says Bjornson. Those whose depression is still active, and out of control, are much more likely to start smoking again. You might need a combination of therapy and medication to manage your depression.
Acknowledge your fears. People who have a history of depression but are not currently depressed appear to be just as successful at smoking cessation as people who do not have a similar history, but it's natural to worry that kicking the habit will reignite symptoms of depression or that you won't be able to cope as well with uncomfortable situations. Talk with your doctor or therapist about your concerns.
Treat new symptoms of depression. Smoking withdrawal symptoms like irritability, restlessness, and feelings of sadness are similar to symptoms of depression, but they usually clear up in a week or two. True depression lasts longer. If you suspect you might be depressed, get help. Seek immediate help if you are having thoughts of suicide.
Develop an individualized quit strategy. The most successful cessation strategies are tailored to your life and personal needs. You should consider the situations or emotions that cause you to want to smoke and find alternate responses to them.
Reach out for support. Both smoking cessation and depression treatment go more smoothly with loved ones in your corner. Ask for help with your goal of quitting smoking successfully. Joining support groups (online or in person) might also be helpful.
You can succeed with smoking cessation, but you'll do better if you take your depression symptoms seriously as well. As challenging as it might seem to both stop smoking and overcome depression, you can do it — with a lot of help from your loved ones and your medical team.