Smoking any type of tobacco can negatively impact a person’s physical health, but there are also consequences to their mental health that are not usually considered. Tobacco use can make someone’s pre-existing mental health condition worse, decrease how well their medications work, and have negative impacts on their financial and social standing. Quitting smoking can help improve behavioral health by reducing troubling symptoms and improving overall mood, relieving stress, and reducing anxiety and depression.
Of all people who smoke, those experiencing behavioral health struggles smoke at a higher rate than the general population (AAFP, 2020). Because of this, quitting smoking becomes harder and returning to smoking after quitting becomes easier. Also, if someone is experiencing depression, anxiety, or financial struggles, using tobacco could make their challenges seem less intense and can make the person feel okay. Like a bandage. According to the American Lung Association, smoking rates tend to be higher in people who have been diagnosed with major depression disorder (59%), bipolar disorder (83%), or schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders (90%), compared to 32% among adults who have not been diagnosed with any type of behavioral health disorders or symptoms (American Lung Association, n.d.). Tobacco cessation, which is the continued ability to avoid tobacco and the use of tobacco products, for any population can greatly reduce many different health effects and improve quality of life.
There are resources available for individuals that are trying to quit smoking. Seeking assistance from your healthcare provider is a good first step. In Lake and Geauga Counties, Lake-Geauga Recovery Centers offers one-on-one tobacco cessation counseling services with independently licensed therapists. If you would like more information about their tobacco cessation services, contact them at 440-255-0678 or info@lgrc.us. The Ohio Tobacco Quitline is also available and is a confidential resource that individuals can utilize to start their quitting journey. Along with counseling, the Ohio Tobacco Quitline can assist with nicotine replacement therapy, such as over the counter patches, gum, or lozenges and prescriptions such as inhalers, and/or a nasal spray.
Get free confidential coaching through the Quitline. Call1-800-QUIT-NOW today.
Written by the Lake County General Health District in collaboration with Lake County ADAMHS Board.
