326. The psychology of nicotine

In this episode of "The Psychology of Your 20s," Jemma Sbeg delves into the psychology behind nicotine addiction, particularly among young adults. She discusses how nicotine interacts with the brain to release dopamine and other neurochemicals, creating feelings of pleasure and focus, which leads to addiction. Jemma explores the social, psychological, and marketing factors that contribute to nicotine use, including stress, social conformity, and targeted advertising. She also addresses the cognitive dissonance that arises when individuals continue to use nicotine despite knowing its harmful effects, and offers strategies for quitting, such as nicotine replacement therapy, identifying triggers, developing healthy replacement behaviors, and challenging rationalizations. She emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and social support in the quitting process, highlighting that relapse is a normal part of the journey and not a sign of failure.