Peer pressure, workplace stress and the social nature of smoking breaks can turn occasional tobacco use into a routine, says Dr Partap Chauhan
PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE
The decision to smoke is often viewed as an individual choice, but the social and professional environment can significantly influence how smoking habits develop, particularly among young adults.
According to Dr Partap Chauhan, pioneer of Ayurvedic telemedicine and founder of Jiva Ayurveda, smoking habits may begin in educational institutions and later become reinforced by workplace culture.
For students, the first experience with smoking may not necessarily stem from a desire to use tobacco. Curiosity, peer pressure and the need to belong can all play a role. A smoking break can also provide an opportunity to socialise, meet friends or colleagues and temporarily step away from regular responsibilities. Over time, such occasions can develop into a habitual behaviour.
The transition from college to the workplace may further reinforce the habit. Young professionals often face deadlines, long working hours, performance pressures and the challenges of adjusting to a new environment. In such circumstances, some may turn to smoking as a way of taking a break, socialising or attempting to cope with stress.
However, the temporary sense of relaxation associated with smoking should not necessarily be viewed as genuine stress relief. According to Dr Chauhan, what may be perceived as a stress-relieving break can, in some cases, be relief from nicotine cravings. This can create a cycle in which stress increases the urge to smoke, smoking provides temporary relief and dependence becomes increasingly difficult to overcome.
Dr Chauhan said changing the culture around tobacco use is therefore important, particularly in colleges and workplaces. Young adults should have alternatives that allow them to take breaks without being exposed to tobacco smoke.
Short walks, breathing exercises, simple stretching, drinking water, stepping outdoors or moving away from a computer for a few minutes can provide opportunities to pause during stressful days.
From an Ayurvedic perspective, maintaining balance in daily life is important for overall wellbeing. Adequate sleep, a balanced diet, regular physical activity, breathing practices and maintaining a structured daily routine can contribute to managing stress. Ayurveda also emphasises supportive lifestyle habits rather than relying solely on willpower when attempting to change established behaviours.
Colleges and workplaces can also contribute by creating smoke-free environments, reducing the social acceptance of smoking and providing healthier alternatives to conventional smoking breaks.
“Rather than simply asking young people to stop smoking, we should also consider what activities can replace the habit,” Dr Chauhan said.
Quitting smoking, therefore, can involve more than stopping tobacco use. It may also require changes in habitual behaviour, social settings and everyday triggers that are associated with smoking.
For young adults, creating an environment where healthier choices are easier to make can be an important step. Instead of stepping out for a cigarette, taking a walk, practising mindful breathing or simply learning to take a break without reaching for tobacco can offer alternative ways of dealing with everyday pressures.
