Every year on May 31st, World No Tobacco Day is observed globally under the leadership of the World Health Organisation (WHO). This day aims to highlight the severe health risks associated with tobacco use and to encourage effective policies to reduce tobacco consumption.
While the physical health consequences of smoking, such as lung cancer and heart disease, are well known, the impact of smoking on mental health is equally alarming yet often overlooked.
Canva
Here are five scientifically backed ways smoking damages your brain and mental health:
Increases risk of depression
Multiple studies have found a strong link between smoking and depression. Nicotine alters the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, including dopamine and serotonin, chemicals responsible for mood regulation. While smoking may offer short-term relief or a "buzz", long-term use has been shown to increase the risk of developing depressive disorders. According to a study, smokers are significantly more likely to suffer from major depressive episodes than non-smokers.
Heightens anxiety and stress levels
Contrary to popular belief, smoking does not relieve stress; it worsens it over time. Nicotine addiction leads to a cycle of dependence, where any temporary relief from anxiety is followed by withdrawal symptoms, increasing stress levels further. The Royal College of Psychiatrists in the UK confirms that people who quit smoking often report reduced anxiety and improved overall emotional well-being within weeks of stopping.
Impair cognitive function
Chronic tobacco use is associated with a decline in cognitive abilities such as attention, memory, and learning. A study revealed that smoking accelerates brain ageing and can lead to structural changes in brain areas related to decision-making and impulse control. Over time, this can reduce mental clarity and increase the risk of neurodegenerative disorders like dementia.
Disrupts sleep patterns
Nicotine is a stimulant that interferes with the body’s natural sleep cycle. Smokers are more likely to suffer from sleep disorders, including insomnia and fragmented sleep. Poor sleep has a profound impact on mental health, contributing to mood swings, irritability, and an increased risk of anxiety and depression. A 2022 study found that smokers take longer to fall asleep and have poorer sleep quality than non-smokers.
Increases risk of schizophrenia and psychosis
Emerging research indicates that smoking, particularly during adolescence, may increase the risk of severe psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia. Nicotine affects the brain’s dopaminergic system, which plays a key role in the development of psychotic symptoms.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor for any concerns or questions regarding your health or medical condition.
