#8221;. Nicotine dependence is more common among individuals with other mental disorders such as schizophrenia. Depending on the geographical segment of society studied, anywhere from 55 percent to 90 percent of individuals with other mental disorders smoke compared to 30 percent in the general population. Mood, Anxiety, and other related disorders are more prominent in those who are ex-smokers as well. This is a good basis for the theory that withdrawal effects can last well beyond the usual month of physical craving. With all the dangers associated with nicotine abuse, the question that begs to be asked is, “Why do people continue to use nicotine?”. In an independent study, 80 percent of individuals who use nicotine express a desire to quit and 35 percent make an attempt each year. Of that 35 percent though, only a meager 5 percent are successful in quitting “Cold Turkey”. One suggestion is that the individual feels he or she would have to give up important social, occupational, or recreational activities and is not willing to do so. Perhaps it masks another possible social disorder? Continued use despite obvious knowledge of medical problems is an important health problem plaguing society today.When an individual with nicotine use disorder attempts to quit, they go through a withdrawal phase that meets the following diagnostic criteria per the DSM IV:A.) Daily use of nicotine for at least several weeksB.) Abrupt cessation of nicotine use, or reduction in the amount of nicotine used, followed within 24 hours by four or more of the following signs: 1.) Dysphoric or depressed mood 2.) Insomnia 3.) Irritability, frustration, or anger 4.) Anxiety 5.) Difficulty Concentrating 6.) Restlessness 7.) Decreased heart rate 8.) Increased appetite or weight gain 9.) Craving C.) The symptoms in Criteria B cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupati...
