Exercise and Smoking Cessation Among Mentally Ill

Exercise may help calm cigarette cravings and help mentally ill patient quit smoking, according to the result of a new study.

Researchers at the University of Toronto in Canada conducted the study after they observed a high prevalence of smoking and physical inactivity among individuals with severe mental illness (SMI). The researchers assessed the acceptability of introducing physical activity, including perceived advantages and disadvantages, as an adjunct to a smoking cessation service among this population.

In the study, 109 SMI patients who were receiving smoking cessation treatment completed a survey that evaluated their perceived interests in physical activity and a 24-item decisional balance questionnaire that reflected the potential advantages and disadvantages of becoming more physically active.

According to the study results, 63 percent of the participants reported that they were interested in receiving help to become more active. Most patients who wanted to become more active said they thought exercise would improve their health, reduce the risk of disease and improve their self-esteem. The most frequently reported barriers included cost and lack of self-motivation to exercise alone.

The researchers concluded that many SMI patients who are seeking treatment to quit smoking might also be receptive to programs involving physical activities. In addition, the researchers suggested that adding physical activity as a smoking cessation strategy among SMI individuals might be beneficial.