What symptom of nicotine withdrawal can be confused with anxiety?

Nicotine withdrawal can lead to several symptoms that may overlap with anxiety, and depression is a notable example. Both conditions can induce feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a general lack of interest in activities. In the context of nicotine withdrawal, individuals may experience depressive symptoms due to the body's adjustment to the absence of nicotine, which can affect neurotransmitter levels like dopamine and serotonin that are crucial for mood regulation.

This confusion arises because both anxiety and depression can present with similar emotional states, such as irritability or low energy, making it challenging to distinguish between the two. On the other hand, symptoms like insomnia, restlessness, and weight gain are less likely to be mistaken for anxiety. Insomnia refers specifically to difficulty sleeping and may result from other factors unrelated to anxiety. Restlessness may indicate agitation rather than anxiety, and weight gain is typically associated with changes in appetite and metabolic adjustments rather than emotional distress.

Thus, recognizing depression as a symptom of nicotine withdrawal that can mimic anxiety is essential for appropriate diagnosis and support during the cessation process.