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Smoking and mental health often go hand in hand, with those living with mental health conditions in Wales far more likely to smoke. Around 33% of adults with mental health challenges smoke, compared to just 13% of the general population. This inequality takes a toll on physical health and life expectancy, deepening the gap in health outcomes. Tackling smoking among people with mental health conditions isn’t just about quitting—it’s about improving lives, reducing early deaths, and building a healthier, fairer Wales.
Smoking and mental health are closely linked, with many people turning to cigarettes as a way to cope with stress and anxiety. While nicotine may create a brief feeling of calm, this quickly fades, often leaving people feeling more stressed and reliant on smoking.
People with mental health challenges are also more likely to smoke more heavily, which increases their risk of serious health problems like lung disease, heart disease, and cancer. For this group, smoking is the leading cause of preventable deaths and can shorten life expectancy significantly.
Smoking remains the leading cause of preventable death among people with mental health conditions, yet many continue to smoke heavily. This not only increases their risk of life-threatening illnesses like heart disease, lung disease, and cancer but also worsens overall quality of life. For those already managing mental health challenges, the added strain on physical health can make daily life even harder.
In Wales, the smoking rate among people with mental health conditions is more than double that of the general population. This stark difference contributes to unfair health outcomes, where those with mental health challenges are more likely to face poorer physical health and a shorter life expectancy. Addressing smoking among this group is essential to tackling health inequalities across Wales.
Nicotine creates a cycle of relief and withdrawal that often feels impossible to break. For those with mental health conditions, smoking can seem like a lifeline, but it’s actually a trap. The temporary calm is short-lived, replaced by cravings and heightened stress. Supporting people to quit smoking isn’t just about improving their physical health—it’s about empowering them to break free from dependence and lead healthier, happier lives.
We know that people with mental health challenges are just as likely to want to quit smoking as anyone else. The right support, including smoke-free environments and access to stop-smoking services, can make a real difference. By offering compassionate and tailored help, we can give more people the chance to live smoke-free lives.
From 1 September 2022, all mental health settings in Wales became smoke-free, including wards, grounds, and vehicles. This policy supports healthier environments for patients and staff alike.
Specialised smoking cessation services like Help Me Quit provide tailored support for individuals with mental health conditions, including nicotine replacement therapies and behavioural counselling.
ASH Wales is working with healthcare providers and policymakers to ensure mental health care includes smoking cessation as a priority. Our campaigns challenge the myths around smoking and mental health and provide tools to support individuals on their quitting journey.
Your support helps us create impactful campaigns and provide free resources to schools and communities across Wales. Every donation brings us closer to a smoke-free generation.
