Smoke free insights: Mental Health Awareness Week
This week marks Mental Health Awareness Week, with this year’s theme focusing on the importance of ‘community’ and recognising the significant role it plays in supporting mental and physical wellbeing.
Around 12.9% of the general adult population in England smoke, however rates are significantly higher amongst vulnerable groups. Between 30–60% of people with a severe mental illness (SMI) are smokers, rising to 70–80% among those experiencing homelessness, and up to 90% of people in substance misuse services. (ASH 2022, NCSCT 2021)
Research shows that these groups not only have greater nicotine dependence, start smoking earlier, and find it harder to quit due to multiple complex needs, but they are also more likely to experience social isolation and stigma. This places individuals with mental health conditions at greater risk of health inequalities and smoking-related harm.
A positive support network significantly increases the likelihood of successful smoking cessation. A trusted and encouraging peer group can bolster motivation, model desired goals, and be an opportunity to share challenges and achievements - all of which contribute to improved quitting outcomes.
Throughout our inpatient services, 1,400 patients were recorded as being a smoker over the last twelve months. As part of the commitment to building an encouraging network for those looking to reduce or quit smoking, our smoke free team provides a range of supportive community spaces - including smoking cessation group sessions, walking groups, and collaborative work with patient representatives who help to role model and promote treatment opportunities on our wards.
We also draw on the voices of peer experts via our lived experience networks, and partner with the SLaM Recovery College to provide ongoing education and support, helping people stay connected and motivated after discharge.
Quitting smoking is the best thing you can do for physical health. However, evidence also tells us that quitting smoking alleviates anxiety, depression, stress, and improves both mood and the perception of quality of life; the size of the effect has shown to be equivalent to taking antidepressant treatment. (McNeil et al, 2014)
If you work for the trust or care for a patient here and would like to be part of our supportive, smoke-free community, please email us at smokefreeready@slam.nhs.uk
To find your local, free stop smoking service, visit https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smoking/ready-to-quit-smoking/find-your-local-stop-smoking-service/ or download the NHS Quit Smoking app.
