Hi wrxn240,
You may be having an unusual reaction to stopping smoking, or perhaps you had a reaction and it triggered a further condition such as
depression. It is true that there is a withdrawal syndrome from nicotine, though it is not usually as long as what you are experiencing. In addition, nicotine, being a stimulant, when suddenly withdrawn may involve trouble concentrating, trouble with short-term memory, negative mood, irritability, and restlessness. You might also consider that there is something else causing or at least contributing to your symptoms. Are you having any stresses, changes, or losses in your life? Is it possible that you are feeling depressed? These are just questions to consider, and you might want to consult with a psychiatrist. This could help you to obtain a good understanding of whether this is due to stopping smoking, or that an episode of nicotine withdrawal may have triggered some
depression or ADHD-like condition. Or, perhaps there is another explanation for what you are experiencing.
People are often afraid of seeking psychiatric help, thinking that it means they are "crazy"; please know that this is rarely the case, and really represents an unreasonable social stigma. In the mind of many, to seek help is a sign of courage and wisdom. Good luck!
- E. Seigle MD
