Ive been a smoker for about 12 years. I'm fully aware of the risks and have seen with my own eyes the horrible conditions it leaves people in.
Yes I'm addicted but I have noticed recently how much I rely on the habit as an easier excuse/escape. It's alot easier for me to say "just popping outside for a ciggie" instead of risking blowing my top in front of (or directly at) people. And if I kept walking away from people or situations i'd be considered rude, childish or people would think I have anger issues (yes I do but I dont want people knowing that!)

It makes me wonder though, correlation or causation? Do I continue to smoke because I am stressed or do I get stressed because I need a cigarette?

One thing I have noticed is since coming off meds earlier this year I'm smoking double what I used to