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This page covers the definitions of smoking and vaping addiction, as well as the support and resources available to you.
What is smoking and vaping addiction?
Addiction to smoking or vaping refers to the compulsive desire to smoke cigarettes or use vape pens and e-cigarettes.
Nicotine, a chemical derived from tobacco, is used in cigarettes, vapes and e-cigarettes. This highly addictive substance can cause nicotine dependency, meaning users can become addicted to smoking and vaping very quickly.
Experiencing the need to smoke or vape to feel calmer and happier, but feeling like you can't stop, indicates a smoking and vaping addiction.
Smoking addiction can have a serious impact on both your physical and psychological wellbeing. The short-term and long-term risks of smoking addiction include, but are not limited to:
- Mood disorders such as depression and anxiety.
- Dental problems.
- Vision and hearing loss.
- Fertility issues,
- Lung diseases such as asthma, and COPD.
- Increased risk of heart disease, stroke, cancer and type 2 diabetes.
- Increased mortality risk.
Whilst the long-term physical effects of vaping are not yet known, addiction to nicotine can cause:
- Nicotine cravings.
- Fatigue and insomnia.
- Constipation or diarrhoea.
- Irritability and restlessness.
- Memory and attention problems.
- Mood disorders such as depression and anxiety.
Resources and support
If you are experiencing problems relating to smoking, or know someone who is, please remember that you are not alone. You can access free and confidential support at UCL as a registered student. Our empathetic team can support you to find the best treatment method for your needs.
There are also a number of services and websites that can help you better understand and cope with smoking addiction.
- Nicotine Anonymous
Nicotine Anonymous is a peer-led fellowship. The organisation host regular group meetings in local communities to support smoking and vaping addiction recovery.
Use the NicA UK search tool to find an in-person or online meeting.
- NHS Stop Smoking services
The NHS Stop Smoking services include free and confidential access to treatments, one-to-one support and group sessions to help you quit smoking.
You can find information on national helplines and Stop Smoking Services in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland on the dedicated Stop Smoking webpage. This page also covers what to expect from treatment and how to access support.
- NHS Quit Smoking app
The NHS offer a free app to help you quit smoking and live a healthier life.
The app allows you to track your progress, access daily support, see how much money you are saving and get inspired by other app users.
- Stamp Out Spiking
Stamp Out Spiking offer immediate to support victims and survivors of spiking. The organisation offers help to report spiking and report to the police.
Spiking is the covert administration of alcohol and drugs into a person's drink or body without their consent. Spiking can be administered through soft drinks, alcohol, drugs, vape liquid and needles.
This non-profit organisation also provides prevention resources, spiking information and guidance on legislation.
- UK SMART Recovery
UK SMART Recovery is a charity offering Self-Help Addiction Recovery Programmes for drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, gambling, food, shopping, internet and more.
The four-point programme is designed to help participants:
- Build and maintain motivation.
- Cope with urges.
- Manage thoughts, feelings and behaviours.
- Live a balanced life.
You can use the search tool to find an in-person meeting in your local area or an online meeting.
- Breathe Stop Smoking Service
Breathe Stop Smoking Service is a flexible service offering support and advice from a friendly team of specialist advisors for residents of Camden and Islington. They offer face-to-face appointments in venues across Camden and Islington.
Resources
Books on smoking addiction
'Overcoming Your Somking Habit: A Self help Guide Using Cognitive Behavioural Techniques', by David F. Marks
Description: 'Have you tried and failed to give up smoking? Most smokers have, but Professor David Marks' method has been scientifically evaluated and the programme's quit-smoking rates are among the highest on record, using a step-by-step week-long programme to help you stop smoking for good.'