To the editor:

September is National Suicide Prevention Month, and our team at The Heart Network is working with its partners to raise awareness about the toxic relationship between tobacco use and mental health. The health impacts of tobacco use, especially smoking, are well-documented. But how does mental health factor in?

First and foremost, a 2025 report prepared by RTI International on behalf of the New York State Department of Health, reveals that people who experience depression, anxiety and other forms of mental distress or illness are almost twice as likely to use tobacco in any form compared to those who don’t report mental distress. The current smoking rate among adults statewide is just above 9 percent, a historical low in our state, but people affected by mental health issues are twice as likely to smoke; the prevalence of cigarette use for this demographic is 18.2 percent. This data trend also applies to several other forms of tobacco use, including e-cigarettes, smokeless tobacco products and cigars.

There’s a clear reason for this statistical disparity: people who experience mental health issues are far more likely to turn to self-medication, and tobacco is one of the most accessible substances in our communities. But the temporary relief that nicotine may provide to some people ultimately exacerbates their problems. According to the NYDOH’s 2025 report, there is strong evidence that indicates tobacco use worsens mental health symptoms in the long term. The report notes that “once nicotine has been metabolized, a person experiences unpleasant withdrawal symptoms, including feelings of mental distress.”

Fortunately, there’s help to be found. For one, speaking to a behavioral health provider about mental health issues and tobacco use can have a profound effect. Not only can therapy and counseling address the root causes of mental illness, but even brief counseling about tobacco use can double — and sometimes triple — a person’s chances of quitting successfully.

The Heart Network works in partnership with its tobacco control partners by promoting cessation services for people looking to quit. We encourage smokers to utilize the NYS Quitline by calling 1-866-NY-QUITS (1-866-697-8487). They can also visit nysmokefree.com to connect with a specialist through an online chat, request a call-back or order free nicotine replacement therapy medications. The NY Quitline additionally offers a free texting program to quit smoking or vaping, by texting QUITNOW (English) or DEJELO YA NY (Spanish) to 333888.

To learn more about local tobacco cessation services, and the parasitic relationship between smoking and mental health, get in touch anytime by emailing mgreenwood@heartnetwork.org.

Sincerely,

Morgan Greenwood

The Heart Network

Saranac Lake