A Stressful Job May be Good If You Smoke

Think a stressful job contributes to your nicotine dependence? Surprisingly, all of those unexpected deadlines, long work hours, and difficulties dealing with a boss could work in your favor – if you smoke. A new study shows that work related pressure and stress reduces a person’s dependence on nicotine – which could make it easier to quit smoking.

Work Related Stress and Dependence on Nicotine

When the going gets tough at work, people often say they need a cigarette. Not necessarily so. According to research carried out at the University of Cologne in Germany, workers who are “stressed out” at work actually smoke less and have a lower dependence on nicotine than those who have a less stressful job.

Why Do People Under Stress at Work Have Less Nicotine Dependence?

No one knows for sure. Possibly, too much stress at work means less time to head to the break room to have a cigarette. Many companies have strict anti-smoking policies which makes it harder to light up during working hours. It’s also possible that a person having a hectic day at work completely forgets to smoke. Whatever the reason, being under stress at work could have some positive benefits when it comes to kicking the habit.

Smoking at Work Can Lead to Other Problems

Smoking at work could easily land you on the wrong side of your boss – even if smoking is allowed in the break room. Some studies show that people who smoke are less productive during office hours and are more likely to call in sick – or not show up on time. Smokers are more likely to catch viral and bacterial respiratory infections and are more prone to other types of illness.

Other Factors That Decrease Dependence on Nicotine

This study showed that people who are married, religious, and more educated were less likely to be nicotine dependent.

Stress at the Office and Nicotine Dependence: The Bottom Line?

Too much stress at the office can increase the risk of a heart attack and elevate the blood pressure, but it may reduce the need to light up – and that’s a good thing.

References:

Medical News Today website. “Nicotine Dependence Decreased By Work Pressures.”