WABASH COUNTY TOBACCO-FREE COALITION
MENTAL HEALTH
Affects how we think, feel, and act, and influences how
we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices.
What is Mental Health?
The U.S. Surgeon General has defined mental health as "a state of successful performance of mental function, resulting in productive activities, fulfilling relationships with people, and the ability to adapt to change and to cope with adversity."
The state of being mentally healthy is enviable given the advantages it affords. For example, mentally healthy adults tend to report the fewest health-related limitations of their routine activities, the fewest full or partially missed days of work, and the healthiest social functioning.
What is mental illness?
Mental illness refers to all the diagnosable mental disorders. Mental disorders are characterized by abnormalities in thinking, feelings, or behaviors. Highly common, about 46% of Americans can expect to meet the formal diagnostic criteria for some form of anxiety, depressive, behavioral, thought, or substance-abuse disorder during their lifetime.
The Impact of Tobacco on Mental Health
Tobacco use remains one of the world’s most widespread and persistent health challenges. While its association with physical illnesses—such as cancer, heart disease, and respiratory problems—is well documented, the impact of tobacco on mental health is often less visible, yet equally profound. Tobacco consumption shapes a person’s emotional and cognitive well-being.
The relationship between tobacco and mental health is complex, shaped by biological, psychological, and social influences. While nicotine may provide short-term relief from negative emotions, the long-term consequences of tobacco use include increased risk of depression, anxiety, cognitive decline, and social isolation. Vulnerable populations are at particular risk, and quitting smoking offers significant benefits for psychological well-being. Addressing tobacco is used as part of comprehensive mental health care and is essential for promoting lasting health and resilience.
Tobacco’s effects reach beyond the body, touching the mind and spirit. By understanding these connections, individuals and communities can take meaningful steps toward smoke-free lives and a healthier lifestyle.
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