Successfully quitting nicotine use has what reported impact on former users?

• A. It causes permanent withdrawal symptoms in all individuals.
• B. It consistently leads to increased anxiety and stress long-term.
• C. It has no measurable effect on stress levels.
• D. It is associated with reduced levels of stress over time.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the context of nicotine use and withdrawal: Nicotine is a stimulant that affects the brain's chemistry, and quitting can initially cause withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, and cravings.
2. Recognize that withdrawal symptoms are typically temporary and vary among individuals; not all former users experience permanent withdrawal symptoms.
3. Review psychological research findings on the long-term effects of quitting nicotine, which indicate that stress and anxiety levels tend to decrease over time after cessation.
4. Consider the physiological and psychological adaptations that occur after quitting, such as the normalization of neurotransmitter function, which contribute to reduced stress levels.
5. Conclude that successful quitting is generally associated with improved mental health outcomes, including reduced stress, rather than permanent or increased stress.