The study of almost 6,500 people over 40 years of age found that 18.3 percent of smokers reported depression and anxiety troubles, as compared to 10 percent of non-smokers and 11.3 percent of ex-smokers.
Lead researcher Robert West, professor of health psychology at the University College London said the study dispels common notions of smoking reducing stress. “Our study found that long-term ex-smokers have similar prevalence of anxiety and depression to non-smokers and considerably lower levels than smokers. Quitting smoking could be the key to improving not only your physical health, but your mental health too.”
Those who had quit smoking for at least a year were almost indistinguishable from non-smokers, according to the findings. Though prior studies have drawn links between smoking and anxiety, this study is said to be the first of its kind to compare smoking to anxiety and depression prevalence with such a large-scale study group. in smokers, non-smokers, and long-term ex-smokers (smokers who have quit for longer than a year), dispels the commonly-held perception that lighting up helps relieves stress, those behind it said.
The foundation released the study a few days before “No Smoking Day”, celebrated on March 11. Associate medical director of the foundation, Dr Mike Knapton said, “There is a belief from many smokers that smoking reduces anxiety and stress, which is in turn causing many smokers to put off quitting. Yet, instead of aiding people to relax, smoking increases anxiety and tension. When smokers light up, the feeling of reduced stress or relaxation is temporary and is soon replaced by withdrawal symptoms and cravings. While smoking temporarily reduces these cravings and feelings of withdrawal – which are similar to feeling anxious or stressed – it does not reduce or treat the underlying causes of stress,” he added.
