A Wellness Approach to Addressing Tobacco in Mental Health Settings: Learning About Healthy Living

Jill M. Williams, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey
Douglas M. Ziedonis, University of Massachusetts Medical School
Betty Vreeland, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey
Nancy Speelman-Edwards, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey
Michelle R. Zechner, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey
Mark T. Williams, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey
Raquel Rahim, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey
Linda Karimi, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey
Margaret Molnar, New Jersey Department of Human Services
Robert Eilers, New Jersey Department of Human Services

Abstract

Objective: Treatments are needed for smokers with serious mental illness (SMI) who are not ready to quit.

Methods: This article describes a 20-session group wellness treatment (Learning About Healthy Living [LAHL]) designed to provide information on tobacco use and other issues to enhance healthy living—nutrition, physical activity, and stress management. Goals are to increase awareness about tobacco and the benefits of treatment to enhance motivation for improving health.

Results: LAHL was successfully pilot-tested for feasibility in nine community treatment programs; feedback from staff and consumers was positive.

Conclusions: LAHL is a feasible treatment model for addressing tobacco that is consistent with wellness and recovery in mental health settings and should be studied further.