I think anything can be an addiction and form of SI. I have definitely learned that. Anything can be used against ourselves. Just to hurt ourselves for whatever reason we want to do that.

Are you physically addicted to the nicotine? If so, maybe you can sort of cut down on how many you put into your coco. Another thought, do you ever feel like you self-medicate with stimulants? I say that because I do/have done it. With coffee. Instead of nicotine mints, maybe try a cup of coffee? Maybe that is "bad advice." Going from one addiction to another. Coffee may give you the lift you may be looking for without resorting to crushing up a bunch of nicotine mints.

Just a thought.