Lighting Up Recovery: Smoking Cessation in Addiction Treatment
I think that’s the same whether it’s in the wider population or in people who are using drugs and alcohol, but in my experience, they’re just not really widely delivered in addiction services. I know some places have kind of had pilots and some people have trialled it and gone back and forth, but there’s not a lot of consistency in what’s actually being available, so I think that’s a problem.
Ever wondered why smoking cessation often takes a backseat in addiction recovery? In this episode of 'PhD: Addicted to Research', Rachel Coleman and Zoe Swithenbank tackle this very issue. They share their experiences and insights on why integrating smoking cessation into addiction treatment plans is crucial yet challenging. Zoe recounts how a day at the Recovery Walk sparked her interest in this field, leading to a deep dive into the complexities of smoking cessation within addiction services.
The duo doesn't shy away from discussing the workforce challenges highlighted in the Dame Carol Black review, which often hinder the implementation of effective smoking cessation programs. But that's not all. They also chat with Dr. Tom Ainscough, who sheds light on his research using contingency management to support smoking cessation for people who use drugs. Dr. Ainscough's work reveals how incentives can play a significant role in encouraging patients to quit smoking, even when it's not their top priority.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the intersection of smoking cessation and addiction treatment. It's packed with real-world examples, expert opinions, and practical advice, making it an invaluable resource for both professionals and those on their recovery journey.