Should I start?
Question
My friend has started smoking and last time I went out with her I really wanted to start smoking too. I know the risks and it's not because I want to be like her, it's just that I'm really tempted to start. I've tried one before and liked it. Is it OK to start smoking?
Answer
You're definitely doing the right thing by trying to find out information before making a decision.
The tobacco in cigarettes contains the drug nicotine . Nicotine is a stimulant. Stimulants do exactly what their name suggests; they stimulate the way your body works. They speed up your heart rate and blood pressure. Rather than relaxing you, smoking does the opposite by speeding your body up.
It's worth knowing that although you might feel able to smoke now and again without getting addicted this isn't very often the case. Even by just smoking every so often it's possible to begin to depend on them both psychologically and physically. You may be able to be an 'occasional smoker' for a long time but few people manage to smoke this way without eventually becoming dependent.
In addition, cigarettes are dangerous because they contain a mix of chemicals that are bad for your health. Basically, the best way to stay safe is to avoid smoking altogether.
Before you start smoking you might find it useful to find out more about what is involved when someone tries to stop smoking. It's also worth giving some thought to whether or not you want to start doing something that is expensive and could lead to wrinkles, cancer and some fairly nasty health problems.
If you want to get some further support about this you can contact Quit, a dedicated helpline for people who want help and advice about smoking and giving up. The helpline number is 0800 00 22 00.
Updated: 02/06/2011
Question answered by Addaction
