I have been in the process of not smoking for 1 1/2 years. Without going into a lot of detail I believe that the lack of nicotine is causing depression and anxiety. I have been off the patch this time for 4 weeks and I have been through the deeper depression and the week of not sleeping well. Also the lump in the throat. Now I just feel gray. Not happy, not sad. Very bored or blah. Things that normally make me feel happy don't. So instead of an antidepressant I am thinking about going back on the patch. If my dopamine receptors need a lift I believe that nicotine is better for me than an antidepressant. I get no physical cravings when I go off the patch. Just emotional problems. Godbless
