It is important to differentiate between short-term and long-term effects of nicotine. While the short-term effects of nicotine may seem positive, long-term use leads to changes in the brain which are overwhelmingly negative. Our brains are designed to try to maintain a state of homeostasis and balance. Chronic use of addictive substances, such as nicotine, push our brain out of homeostasis. Over time, our brains adapt by taking a position opposite the effect of the drug so that the drug will not push the brain too far from balance. Eventually, with chronic use, substance use has the exact opposite effect on the brain than the intended effect of using the drug; subsequently, increased use of the drug is needed to maintain homeostasis. Negative effects on mental health include the following: Anxiety and stress : While nicotine can provide temporary relief from stress and anxiety, there is evidence to suggest that chronic nicotine use may actually increase anxiety levels over time. Anxiety may be experienced in the setting of nicotine withdrawal or in anticipation of not having nicotine available. Quitting nicotine may initially increase anxiety levels before they eventually decrease. Depression: While the short-term effects of nicotine may be euphoria and improved mood, with long-term use, one’s baseline level of sadness and depression can lower.  Addiction: Addiction has a huge impact on mental health on several levels. First, tolerance is important component of addiction which means that higher and higher doses are needed to achieve the same results. Second, there is often significant time and emotional energy devoted to the substance. This may take the form of time needed to acquire the drug, time thinking about the drug, time spent hiding the drug or the effects of the drug (such as the smell), and of course the high financial cost of the drug. All of these can impact all areas of mental health.