Authors
Brunette MF, Ferron JC, Robinson D, et al.
Purpose
Noting the lack of research evaluating smoking cessation interventions among young adults with severe mental illness (SMI), researchers compared effects of an interactive, web-based motivational decision support intervention to static digital educational materials on motivation to quit smoking in young adults with (SMI).
Methods
81 young adults with SMI aged 18-30 were randomized to receive Let’s Talk About Smoking or informational resources. An additional quasi-experimental control group received no intervention and completed minimal assessments only. Intervention and control participants completed assessments at baseline and 14 weeks, of psychiatric symptoms, smoking characteristics, use of cessation treatment, quit attempts, and abstinence (verified with breath carbon monoxide levels). Minimal assessment group participants completed brief assessments of nicotine dependence, diet and exercise, and psychiatric symptoms.
Findings
- Significantly more intervention participants had verifiable abstinence at 14 weeks (15%) compared to both control groups (0%).
- Rates of self-reported 1- and 7-day abstinence were not significantly different between intervention and informational control groups.
- Participants with verifiable abstinence at 14 weeks had not used verifiable cessation treatment.
- The most commonly reported cessation aid was talking to friends.
Relevance
- Let’s Talk About Smoking may improve motivation to quit smoking in young adults with SMI.
- Additional research to study easily scalable brief, technology-delivered motivational interventions is warranted among young adults with SMI.
- Research should also evaluate strategies to harness support from friends and peer groups in cessation efforts.