Is depression a side effect of quitting smoking?
On One Hand: Withdrawal is Different from DepressionAfter you quit smoking you will begin to experience the effects of withdrawal as your body gets used to functioning without nicotine. According to Smokefree.gov, the nicotine cravings can lead to mood changes, such as irritiblity, restlessness or feeling blue. Mood changes are very common for those who have recently quit smoking but will usually get better after one or two weeks. Mood changes are not as serious as diagnosed depression.On the Other: Depression is Common in SmokersSmokefree.gov says that some research suggests that depression is common in people who smoke cigarettes either because smoking can help comfort the effects of depression or smokers may be more likely to get depression because of smoking. It suggests that more research is needed to find out for certain.Bottom LineQuitting smoking causes withdrawal from the addiction to nicotine which can lead to mood changes and feelings of depression but not clinical depressio
