The difficulty of quitting smoking lies primarily in the addictive nature of nicotine, the main active ingredient in tobacco. Nicotine creates a powerful dependency by quickly delivering a pleasurable sensation to the brain, reinforcing the habit of smoking. This chemical interaction not only leads to physical dependence but also results in changes in brain function, making individuals anxious or irritable when they try to quit. Withdrawal symptoms, including strong urges to smoke, sleep disturbances, difficulty concentrating, and general discomfort, are common and can be challenging to overcome. Smoking is often deeply integrated into an individual's daily routine and social life. It can be associated with specific activities, like drinking coffee or socializing, making it harder to break the habit. Stressful situations can also trigger a strong desire to smoke, especially for individuals with co-occurring mental health conditions.