Smoking among in-patients with drug-related problems in an Australian psychiatric hospital

Despite the high prevalence of smoking among people with mental illnesses, interventions for tobacco dependence have not typically been offered as part of treatment regimens. Data on the prevalence of smoking among 160 people with coexisting alcohol or other drug problems admitted to acute wards of a public psychiatric hospital are presented. Associations between level of smoking, diagnosis, socio-demographic variables and readiness to quit smoking are examined. Reasons for smoking are also reported. Over 90% of the sample were regular smokers, with a mean cigarette consumption of 22.09 cigarettes per day, which was not related to type of psychiatric illness, gender or relationship status. Daily cigarette consumption was higher among older smokers and those with a diagnosis of alcohol dependence. It is suggested that interventions for tobacco dependence among people with co-existing alcohol or other drug problems and mental illnesses should be conducted by mental health staff and aim to increase or consolidate motivation to quit smoking; provide nicotine replacement; address any concurrent alcohol abuse; identify and challenge dysfunctional beliefs about smoking; and address stress management, boredom and lifestyle.