The article on smoking cessation (“Heart Health: Smoking cessation,” Feb. 4) stated that a high percentage of patients who did not attend cardiac rehab programs said they were interested in smoking cessation, but indicated experiencing anxiety and depression. The patients suggested stress management be added to cessation programs.
In the adverse childhood experiences study, the authors describe the effect of past adversity on current health, where those that had six or more adverse experiences were more likely to smoke. Patients reported smoking had a calming effect.
Many people start smoking to deal with stress. Thus, to support quitting, other ways of coping need to be offered that fit the person’s lifestyle. Then, they have a chance to improve their health and well-being.
Genevieve E. Chandler
Leverett
The author is a PhD and RN and a professor at the College of Nursing at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.