Although the smoker’s physical dependence on nicotine seems to be widely recognized, the psychological dependence on smoking requires equal attention for effective smoking cessation. Only eliminating the physical need for nicotine may not result in the smoker’s quitting if the psychological dependency is not addressed.

People should, however, be reassured that smokers can and do stop smoking. Smoking is a learned behavior and can be unlearned or extinguished. Smoking is often associated with, or linked with daily activities such as having a cup of coffee, finishing a meal, socializing, etc. It is very much possible to break the psychological dependency of smokers by modifying the smoker’s usual behavior pattern thereby breaking the associations that have been reinforced in the past. New associations, more healthy substitutes for smoking, can be developed with the help of modern smoking cessation programs.