Kickin' It: Tobacco Control Needs and Strategies for Youth with Mental Illnesses

The current study will explore how to adapt evidence-based tobacco cessation and prevention interventions to meet the unique physiological, psychological, and social challenges facing youth with mental illnesses. Nationally, tobacco use prevalence among persons with mental illnesses is over 40% (Lasser et al., 2000), twice that of the general population. As many as 80% of tobacco users report smoking initiation before the age of 18 (Johnston et al., 2005). Persons with mental illnesses suffer excess mortality and morbidity, often associated with smoking, and die on average 25 years younger than the general population. Among youth who try cigarettes, those who progress to regular smoking status, as well as nicotine dependence, are more likely to report heightened levels of stress, depression, anxiety, and suicide attempts (Escobedo et al., 1998; Riala et al., 2007; Sonntag et al., 2000). Little attention has been paid to the tobacco control needs of persons with mental illnesses, and this need is even greater among youth. We will present qualitative findings from 5 focus groups conducted with youth and key stakeholder interviews. Findings will include emergent themes regarding perceived tobacco control needs, barriers, and strategies including specific messaging needed for youth.