If you have ever met someone who is using an e-cigarette, you have probably heard them talk about these tools are healthier alternatives to traditional cigarettes or good tools for nicotine withdrawal. Nevertheless, have you ever wondered if these devices are actually helpful? On the surface, you would probably agree with your peer, as these devices do not contain a hint of tobacco. However, the fact of the matter is the e-cigs pose just as much a threat to a person’s health as good old Marlboros or Camels. Let’s take a closer look at the problem with e-cigarettes for recovering smokers.
Not a Form of Therapy
Let’s clarify one fact about e-cigarettes: these tools are not part of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) programs. Although these devices can be used to help people taper off nicotine, e-cigs are not medically approved for therapeutic programs and are not regulated. As a result, the products are not tested and can contain various amounts of the addictive drug.
Although marketers of e-cigs will claim their products are viable replacement tools, Douglas Bettcher, Former Director of the World Health Organization’s Tobacco Free Initiative, has asserted these claims to be false. As he explains, if these companies want to provide aid to smokers, representatives need to conduct medical studies.
A Reinforcement for Smoking
While NRT seeks to prevent relapses and help people withdrawal safely, e-cigarettes simply serve as a gateway for smoking behavior. By selecting flavored products and “fashionable” devices, users will ultimately be reinforcing their nasty habit and cementing their sickness. If you want to make the courageous and health-conscious move to quit smoking, we recommend you stick with NRTs and stay away from e-cigarettes.
Seeking Treatment for Cigarette Use
Remember that addiction can be triggered by one shot of alcohol or a single puff of a cigarette, but the true danger of this sickness is that you cannot fully determine how much you have to consume before your mind forms an attachment. Social smoking is just as dangerous as chronic smoking, on many levels, but you do not have to smoke to have a good time. Remember, drugs cannot determine if you have fun and do not have control over your life.
If you are suffering from a severe case of drug abuse or addiction, or have a friend or loved one who is coping with this illness, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process of alcohol withdrawal and detox and guide you along the rocky road of rehabilitation. Soon enough, you will experience a faster and much more efficient recovery.
If you want to find out more about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can overcome your mental illness and take an extra step toward becoming a healthier person.
