A report on smoking and improving mental health has been released by Bath University.
The report’s objective was to examine the association between giving up tobacco smoking and changes in mental health. It was discussed at the mental health seminar held by Wiltshire Lib Dems in February.
The common perception is that smoking generally helps people to manage stress, and may be a form of relaxation in people with mental health conditions, including those in alcohol rehab, for example. However the review found that smoking may worsen mental health through neuroadaptations linked to chronic smoking which lead to anxiety, depression and irritability.
As such, smoking cessation may help to improve rather than worsen mental health.
Wiltshire Lib Dems welcomed the report which aligns with policies in their manifesto which will:
“reinvigorate successful health promotion programmes such as smoking cessation and to improve services to tackle unhealthy life choices and addictions.”
Cllr Clare Cape, Wiltshire Lib Dems joint spokesperson for Health said: “These results are telling, and show us the benefits of living a healthier life. Unfortunately smoking rates in Wiltshire are above the national average. Smoking remains the leading cause of premature death in the UK and this report highlights yet another reason to quit.
“Our plan for Wiltshire will reinvigorate successful health promotion programmes such as smoking cessation and we will work with researchers and community groups to secure a safer and healthier Wiltshire through its recovery.”
Cllr Gordon King, Wiltshire Lib Dems joint spokesperson for Health added: “Although some believe smoking can reduce stress and other symptoms related to mental illness, this review reinforces the link between smoking cessation and improvements in mental health. If successful in the May elections in Wiltshire, we aim to work with researchers to use the findings to implement real policy that will improve the health of residents across Wiltshire.”