Does Nicotine Cause Anxiety? Understanding the Real Connection

The  American Psychology Association (APA) defines anxiety as a mental state characterized by feelings of unease, worry, or fear. Though anxiety is a natural part of our lives, chronic anxiety can disrupt daily life.

Nicotine triggers the release of dopamine and serotonin, key neurotransmitters that regulate mood and emotions. Dopamine creates a sense of pleasure and reward, while serotonin (also known as the “happy” hormone) helps, which is responsible for regulating mood and emotions. When exposed to nicotine over a long period, the brain begins to experience a craving-and-withdrawal effect , which can eventually turn into nicotine dependency. This dependency can lead to a cycle where nicotine is needed for emotional stability and where its absence can create mood swings and heightened anxiety.

Nicotine is often used as a stress reliever in the short term or to improve focus. Nicotine consumption stimulates the release of dopamine, AKA the “feel-good” hormone, which temporarily improves mood and focus. However, as the effects wear off, stress and anxiety frequently return — sometimes more intensely — leading to a cycle of nicotine dependency as users try to manage emotional lows.

Over time, nicotine use can cause lasting damage to the brain and body. Studies show it may impair memory, disrupt sleep, and potentially worsen anxiety disorders. Long-term use may also lead to nicotine dependence . Dependence can develop as the brain starts relying on nicotine for balance, leading to withdrawal symptoms like irritability, restlessness, and heightened anxiety when nicotine levels drop.

Nicotine activates the body’s fight-or-flight response by stimulating the autonomic nervous system. This triggers adrenaline release , raising heart rate and blood pressure. While this temporary boost may feel energizing, it adds stress to the body. Over time, frequent activation of this mechanism can heighten feelings of tension and unease, which can contribute to long-term anxiety issues.

When nicotine levels drop, withdrawal symptoms like irritability, restlessness, and heightened stress emerge. The brain struggles to balance neurotransmitters without nicotine, intensifying anxiety. This withdrawal-driven discomfort reinforces the urge to consume nicotine, which perpetuates a harmful cycle of dependency.

The link between nicotine use and anxiety is a bit of a chicken-and-egg scenario.

Research suggests that individuals with anxiety or depression are significantly more likely to use nicotine as a way to relieve stress from overwhelming emotions. Nicotine’s quick release of dopamine can temporarily improve mood, which gives the illusion of control over anxiety. With repeated use, nicotine and anxiety start feeding into each other.

In a way, nicotine use is both a symptom and a cause of anxiety.

In the long term, quitting nicotine can lower levels of anxiety and depression, though nicotine withdrawal can occur at first. Anxiety is a common symptom of nicotine withdrawal, and can be most severe in the immediate days or weeks after quitting. But over time, withdrawal symptoms like anxiety can fade. 

If you use nicotine to manage your anxiety, it’s likely that your anxiety can resurface or intensify after you’ve let go of that coping mechanism. You can feel tense, agitated, or particularly stressed out. Physically, you could feel a tightening of your muscles around your neck and shoulders. It’s important to know that these feelings don’t last forever and that over time, their intensity will subside.

Anxiety symptoms from nicotine withdrawal can begin as soon as 24 hours after you quit. Withdrawal symptoms can grow within the first 3 days and can last up to several weeks. Other activities can help you manage your anxiety in the meantime, including physical activity and reducing caffeine intake.

Vaping can contribute to anxiety due to the effects of nicotine on the brain and body. Even though vaping is marketed as a “safer” alternative to smoking, many vape products still contain nicotine. Just like with cigarettes, vaping can lead to nicotine dependency and withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, restlessness, and anxiety.

Another concerning aspect of vaping is its accessibility among the youth. Since it’s marketed with a wide range of enticing flavors and designs, vaping is more appealing to the younger crowd. This makes them more vulnerable to the risks of nicotine dependence and anxiety at an earlier age.

Even though nicotine-free vapes are available, more research is needed to determine whether they can help reduce anxiety. However, even though there’s no nicotine, there’s still plenty of harmful chemicals in those products.

There are numerous alternatives to managing anxiety. Quitting nicotine with NRT , like Jones mint lozenges, is a great way to start. Regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, and reducing your caffeine intake can all help reduce feelings of anxiety. Getting plenty of sleep can also aid in managing stress, according to studies. Meditation, journaling, and breathing practices are also a few easy ways to cope. 

Quitting vaping isn’t easy– especially when you do it alone. Jones FDA-approved NRT mints and app can support your journey with judgment-free, personalized guidance.

Our FDA-approved nicotine mints are formulated to curb your nicotine cravings and reduce your dependency over time. With low-addictive potential, these aren't another nicotine product to get you hooked. In fact, they are FDA-approved to help you quit and backed by decades of clinical studies.

Pair NRT mints with our free app that provides clinically proven behavioral strategies and daily motivation. This combination of NRT and community-driven behavioral tools is the most effective way to quit. Our program is designed to help you gradually manage cravings and reduce your nicotine dependency over time. 

Nicotine products like pouches or gum can sometimes trigger or worsen anxiety, especially in people who are sensitive to stimulants. While some users may initially feel a calming effect, nicotine actually stimulates the nervous system and can lead to increased heart rate, restlessness, or jitteriness—all of which can mimic or intensify anxiety symptoms. Everyone reacts differently, but it’s important to pay attention to how your body responds.

Many people turn to nicotine because it’s a quick way to relieve stress. Just a few puffs can trigger feelings of relief and relaxation. Instant gratification makes it an easy go-to during stressful moments, even though the effects are short-lived.

Over time, regular nicotine use often leads to dependence and increased tolerance. The brain begins to rely on nicotine for emotional stability, requiring higher amounts to achieve the same relief. This cycle of dependency and withdrawal can worsen stress and anxiety between uses, which makes quitting even harder.

Another reason nicotine remains a go-to is its accessibility and affordability. Compared to stress-relief options like therapy or exercise, nicotine products are convenient and easy to obtain. This convenience can make them more appealing despite healthier alternatives providing more effective and longer-lasting changes.

Letting go of nicotine can feel like losing a familiar coping tool—but it's also a chance to build more sustainable strategies for managing anxiety. Whether you’re dealing with short-term withdrawal or looking ahead to long-term balance, there are healthier ways to regulate your nervous system and feel more in control.

Managing anxiety without nicotine means finding tools that support your mental health over time. This could include therapy, journaling, regular movement, mindfulness practices, or even medication if recommended by a healthcare provider. The key is to create a plan that fits your life—and gives you room to grow without relying on nicotine as a crutch.

It might feel like it does—especially right after using it—but that calming sensation is often short-lived and misleading. Nicotine temporarily eases withdrawal symptoms and boosts dopamine, which can create the illusion of relief.

Nicotine stimulates the nervous system, triggering your body’s fight-or-flight response. Over time, this can make you feel more jittery, restless, or emotionally off-balance. The cycle of dependency and withdrawal can also intensify feelings of anxiety between uses.

It’s common for anxiety to stick around after quitting, especially in the early weeks. Your brain and body need time to adjust. If anxiety persists or feels overwhelming, consider talking to a healthcare provider—there may be other underlying factors or supportive strategies to explore.

Nicotine-free vapes remove the addictive stimulant, but they’re not exactly a cure-all. Many still contain other chemicals, and the act of vaping itself can reinforce stress-related habits. If you’re looking to reduce anxiety, more proven tools—like movement, mindfulness, or therapy—may offer longer-lasting benefits.

Nicotine and anxiety have a complicated relationship—one that often traps people in a loop of temporary relief and long-term stress. While nicotine may feel like a quick fix, its effects on the brain and body can actually make anxiety worse over time. The good news? Quitting nicotine opens the door to more sustainable ways to manage your mental health. Whether you're just starting to cut back or you're already nicotine-free, there are tools and strategies that can help you feel calmer, more balanced, and fully in charge of your well-being.