Individuals who believe that their smoking habit could help them to relax after a long day could actually be making their anxiety worse, new research has suggested.
A study published in the British Medical Journal has suggested that quitting can be equally as effective for tackling depression and other mental issues as taking antidepressants.
Researchers from the universities of Birmingham, Oxford and King’s College London – who analysed 26 studies – said the effect of kicking the habit could be more helpful than medication.
In addition, analysts said that healthcare professionals who have failed to offer advice about tobacco to individuals with mental health problems should be encouraged to do so by the findings.
What’s more, conclusions suggested that psychological quality of life significantly improved for participants who stopped smoking.
The report said: “Smoking cessation is associated with reduced depression, anxiety and stress, and improved positive mood and quality of life compared with continuing to smoke.”
