Smokers ‘more likely to suffer from depression’

Researchers said quitting could help people combat anxiety and depression. They found levels of anxiety and depression among long-term ex-smokers were indistinguishable from people who have never smoked and were much lower than smokers.

The study of nearly 6,500 people over the age of 40 found 18 per cent of smokers reported depression and anxiety compared with 10 per cent of non-smokers and 11 per cent of ex-smokers.

The research dispels a commonly-held perception that lighting up helps relieves stress, authors from University College London said.

According to the report: “Quitting smoking could be the key to improving not only your physical health, but your mental health too.”

British Heart Foundation associate medical director Mike Knapton said: “There is a belief from many smokers that smoking reduces anxiety and stress, which is in turn causing many smokers to put off quitting. When smokers light up, the feeling of reduced stress or relaxation is temporary.”