What's happening
Many people used nicotine to cope with stress. Smokefree.gov says that even if you rarely felt anxious before quitting vaping, you may feel more stress, irritability or anxiety afterwards.
These mood changes are usually temporary while your body adjusts, Smokefree.gov says, and the longer you go without nicotine, the better you will feel. The CDC notes that people who quit smoking often have lower anxiety and depression a few months later.
If you feel extreme anxiety, a big change in mood, or symptoms that don't go away, talk to a doctor or health professional.
What helps today
- Stop and breathe: slow breaths in through the nose and out through the mouth.
- Get moving for a few minutes when stress builds.
- Cut back on caffeine, which can add to feeling on edge.
- Talk to someone. You don't have to deal with stress alone.
- In the US, if you are in crisis, call or text 988 any time.