Smoking and Vaping

How are smoking and mental health linked?

Many people smoke or vape because they feel it helps them relax or cope with stress. In reality, nicotine creates a cycle: the craving between cigarettes causes tension, and smoking only relieves the craving it created. Research shows that people who stop smoking often feel less anxious, less depressed and less stressed than before.

Smoking rates are higher among people with mental health conditions and in manual trades, including construction. Vaping is much less harmful than smoking and can help people quit, but it is still addictive and is not recommended for people who have never smoked.

What are the signs of nicotine dependence?

1. Cravings and habits:

• Needing a cigarette or vape soon after waking up.
• Smoking at every break, or finding breaks hard without one.
• Strong urges during stressful moments.

2. Withdrawal symptoms:

• Irritability, restlessness and anxiety.
• Low mood and difficulty concentrating.
• Increased appetite and trouble sleeping.

3. Loss of control:

• Trying to quit several times without success.
• Smoking or vaping more than you intend.

What are the statistics for smoking in the UK?

Prevalence: Around 1 in 8 adults in the UK smoked in 2023, according to the ONS, the lowest level on record.

Mental health: Smoking rates are much higher among people with a mental health condition.

Health: Smoking remains the UK's single biggest preventable cause of death and illness.

Quitting: You are around three times more likely to quit successfully with support from a local stop smoking service than by willpower alone.

Where to get help with quitting smoking UK?

Always call 999 if you are in need of urgent help.

NHS Quit Smoking: Free advice, apps and details of local stop smoking services.
Website: https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smoking/
National Smokefree Helpline: 0300 123 1044

Your GP or pharmacist: They can offer nicotine replacement therapy and stop-smoking medicines.

ASH (Action on Smoking and Health): Information on smoking, vaping and quitting.
Website: https://ash.org.uk/

Mind: Information on smoking and mental health.
Infoline: 0300 123 3393

Most people need a few attempts to quit. Every attempt brings you closer.

Addiction and substance use