A Sign of Emotional Relief? Neha Cadabam, senior psychologist and executive director at Cadabams Hospitals, tells indianexpress.com, “Yes, the ‘fridge cigarette’ trend can be viewed as an emotional coping mechanism, particularly among young people navigating stress, burnout, or emotional fatigue. While the term itself may sound humorous or harmless, it reflects a growing pattern of relying on quick comfort habits to self-soothe. Reaching for a cold, fizzy drink can offer a brief sense of control, pleasure, or distraction in a fast-paced or overstimulating environment.”