Did you know an adolescent could become hooked on cigarettes after only smoking one? According to the University Of Massachusetts Medical School, kids are more vulnerable because their brain is still developing thus making it easier to rewire itself quickly to crave nicotine. In their study, they found that half of teens are hooked on tobacco after only smoking 10 cigarettes without even realizing it. They do not have the same cravings as an avid smoker; rather they may not even crave a cigarette for days or even weeks after their last smoke. An avid smoker will begin to have a craving on general 45 minutes after their last smoke and heavy smokers even sooner.
Experts also state that 40% of our youth who try to quit smoking will relapse in a week or less and only 3% will stay abstinent. The average age adolescents begin smoking is 13. They experience all the same side effects as their adult counterparts with the shortness of breath, coughing, headaches, poor over all health, and frequently getting sick. Cigarettes have been found to be a common denominator as a stepping-stone to riskier behaviors. Kids who smoke are 5 times more likely to drink alcohol and 13 times more likely to use marijuana.
Tobacco is addictive so it is no surprise that it would be considered a stepping stone for more addictive habits. It would be interesting to see some statistics on how many of our youth that smoke exhibited an addictive personality/traits prior to smoking and the percentage that did not present with such traits and became addicted to smoking. What are your thoughts?
If you need help, are struggling with an addiction, or know of someone who is, please contact A Better Tomorrow Treatment Center today. We are here to help.
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