Survey of clinician attitudes toward smoking cessation for psychiatric and substance abusing clients
Andrea H Weinberger1, Erin L Reutenauer, Jennifer C Vessicchio
1Program for Research in Smokers with Mental Illness (PRISM), Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06519, USA. andrea.weinberger@yale.edu
Abstract:
The current study examined mental health clinician attitudes regarding smoking cessation for psychiatric and substance abusing patients. Participants included n = 15 never smokers, n = 12 former smokers, and n = 7 current smokers. There was a trend (p = 0.08) for current smokers as compared to former and never smokers to be less likely to encourage their clients to stop smoking. Overall, clinicians strongly agreed that an individual's motivation is the most important determinant of success in quitting. Clinicians were concerned that smoking cessation would initiate a relapse to substance abuse. We suggest that mental health clinicians can be instrumental in providing information, encouragement, and opportunities for their patients to attempt smoking cessation.
Related Concept Videos
Acute Coronary Syndrome IV: Interprofessional Care
Drug Dependence
Stress Prevention and Stress Management Techniques IV
CNS Depressants: Alcohol and Nicotine
Drug Therapy
Antianxiety Medications
Psychosis: Goals of Pharmacotherapy

