Acharya Prashant explains that addictions like smoking, drinking, and overeating are not the primary problems but symptoms of a deeper mental state. He points out that these urges do not arise during deep sleep or moments of true contentment, but rather during states of restlessness, boredom, or excitement. He argues that one cannot quit an addiction as long as the underlying mental state that necessitates it remains unchanged. Often, our lifestyle and the people around us create the tension that drives us toward these habits, yet we focus on the habit rather than the source of the stress.