MYTH: Quitting smoking interferes with recovery from mental illness.
FACT: Smoking cessation does not exacerbate symptoms of depression or PTSD, nor does it lead to increased substance use or psychiatric hospitalization.1
November 17th was the Great American Smokeout - an annual event to encourage Americans to stop smoking. APNA recognizes the devastating effects of smoking on those with mental health and substance use disorders. SAMHSA reports that, compared with the general population, people with mental or substance use disorders are more likely to not only smoke, but also get sick or die of tobacco-related causes. The Tobacco Dependence Branch of the APNA Addictions Council has put together an updated section of expert-vetted online resources to raise awareness and support you in your tobacco cessation efforts. It includes screening tools, clinical practice guidelines, examples of psychiatric-mental health nurse initiatives, and more.
View the resources here.