Addressing smoking and mental health

There are strong links between smoking and mental health - and in the UK, around a third of all tobacco is used by people with mental health issues.  

There is now consistent evidence to show that stopping smoking is associated with improvements in depression, anxiety, stress and psychological quality of life compared with continuing to smoke.  In addition, people with mental health conditions are just as likely to want to quit (if not more). 

Closing the Inequality Gap: Smoking and mental health (2022 report)

The aim of the report is to provide an overview of smoking and mental health in Scotland; to share learning from policy and practice; and to present recommendations which aim to close the inequality gap and build a tobacco-free generation by 2034.

Our approach to tackling the interplay of smoking and mental health must ensure those who are experiencing mental health issues are protected and empowered to make informed decisions about their wellbeing.  Their voices must be at the forefront of influencing policy decisions to improve Scotland’s physical and mental health.

Executive summary (available end May)
Full report (available end May)

IMPACT Project

ASH Scotland’s IMPACT project has provided up-to-date training and a guidance booklet on smoking and mental health to third sector, local authority and NHS services since 2017. It is aimed at staff and volunteers supporting people with mental health issues and highlights the effects of smoking on mental health, and how you can respond

If you work in a mental health support setting and would like to know more about how we can upskill yourself or your team to provide information around smoking, please get in touch or visit the IMPACT website.

Young people, mental health and smoking

ASH Scotland commissioned a consultation to explore smoking, young people and mental health. This was conducted in 2021 and a copy of the report and recommendations can be found on our young people and mental health page.