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Why do I Smoke?
Cigarettes – designed to addict

Have you smoked for years?

Tried to quit once, twice, or more times than you can remember? You’re not alone. Quitting smoking is hard to do. Here’s why –

Each puff...

from a single cigarette delivers nicotine to your lungs, where it’s quickly absorbed.

False feelings

Within seconds, nicotine travels to the brain – where it triggers a temporary improvement in your mood.

Temporary relief

This feeling doesn’t last long; you’ll want more nicotine in just 20 minutes!

Stress

The longer you go without, the stronger the urge and the more stressful it seems.

The cycle continues – addiction

A puff on a cigarette delivers nicotine to your brain, and you feel better again.


That relaxing feeling from smoking is relief from nicotine withdrawal.



You can quit

Whether it's your first or tenth time quitting. That's ok. Remember, it's normal. You can do this. Learn more by visiting the pages below or call a Quit Coach for help.
Last updated 3/3/2021 9:00 AM
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Not insured? Check out the New York State of Health by visiting nystateofhealth.ny.gov.

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