Frequency of Mental Health Symptoms by Smoking Status

This original article presents a cross-sectional study aimed at comparing the frequency of psychiatric symptoms based on smoking status. The study involved 360 participants, categorized into three groups: 120 active smokers wishing to quit, 120 active smokers not wishing to quit, and 120 non-smokers. Participants completed a sociodemographic questionnaire and the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI) through face-to-face interviews. The results indicated significant differences in the prevalence of psychiatric symptoms among the groups. For instance, somatization was found in 29.4% of the case group, 10.8% of control group 1, and 2.5% of control group 2. Other disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, and anxiety also showed higher frequencies in smokers. The findings suggest a need for a comprehensive approach to smoking cessation that considers the mental health of individuals. The study highlights the relationship between smoking and various mental health issues, emphasizing the importance of addressing these factors in treatment plans.