Children, fags, drugs and booze

There are many reasons why young people start smoking, drinking or taking drugs, often out of curiosity, rebellion, or influence from peers. However feeling unhappy, stressed or trying to cope with problems in their lives can keep these habits alive. Educating young people about how the feelings of relief or enjoyment that drugs, alcohol and smoking can provide is only temporary is vital. Any underlying problems don’t disappear and may indeed worsen, and dependence on these substances itself creates new problems.

 

Drinking, smoking and taking illicit drugs are all risky behaviours that can lead to both physical and mental health problems. It’s good news that fewer children are taking these risks, but there’s still a huge job to do. We must continue to educate both parents and children about how substance misuse can negatively impact on their mental health.

 

These words are from Simon Lawton-Smith, Head of Policy at the Mental Health Foundation in response to the Health and Social Care Information Centre (HSCIC report), Smoking, Drinking and Drug Use among Young People in England – 2012

 

Mental Health Foundation conducted research into the effect alcohol and smoking can have on our mental health, which is outlined in our reports: Cheers! (http://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/publications/cheers-report/)

smoking and mental health  - is for anyone wanting to understand the links between smoking and mental health.