World No Tobacco Day: Expert shares 5 ways smoking actively damages your mental health
World No Tobacco Day 2025: Every year on May 31, World No Tobacco Day is observed to raise awareness about the ill effects of tobacco on health. WHO has announced the theme for this year - 'Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing Industry Tactics on Tobacco and Nicotine Products.' This campaign intends to shed light on the manipulative tactics the tobacco industry uses to make smoking appear attractive.
While it is already well-known how smoking harms physical health, the toxic content of cigarettes doesn't spare mental health either. In the culture of 'chai sutta breaks', smoking is commonly thought to remove mental roadblocks, beckoning those lightbulb moments of creativity. Even beyond that, it's generally considered a stress buster. But in reality, smoking worsens your mental health in more ways than one.
Dr Pavitra Shankar, psychiatrist at Aakash Healthcare, shared with HT Lifestyle how mental health takes a serious hit because of smoking.
She said, 'Mental health starts to improve within weeks of quitting. People feel calmer, sleep better, and feel more in control. Mood improves, and confidence returns.'
Dr Pavitra shared a guide with us, listing out some of the ways you may be damaging your mental health if you are a smoker:
ALSO READ: 'Sitting is the new smoking': Fitness expert suggests 4 exercises you can do if you sit for too long
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
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