WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY AND WHERE VAPING FITS INTO IT

We should all be well aware by now of not only the physical health risks of smoking, but the benefits of giving up, whether that’s with help of vaping, other alternatives, or simply nothing and going Cold Turkey. But what about your mental health?

Smoking can often be a way that those dealing with mental health issues help ease their stress, studies show that smoking can actually have a more negative effect on the brain, escalating existing mental health issues or creating new issues altogether.

WHEN IS WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY?

World Mental Health Day is recognised on the 10th October each year. The goal of this day is to raise awareness of and offer support with the multitude of mental health issues people all around the world deal with on a daily basis.

WHAT IS WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY?

The World Health Organisation established World Mental Health Day to provide an opportunity for all involved with mental health to talk about their work, and what more needs to be done to make mental health care a reality for people worldwide.

This year's theme is 'Mental Health in an Unequal World', chosen by a global vote consisting of WFMH members, stakeholders and supporters because the wealth gap is increasing, with the very rich getting even richer, and the number of people living in poverty still far too high.

Not only this, inequalities due to race and ethnicity, sexual orientation and gender identity, along with the general lack of respect for human rights in a multitude of nations, especially for people dealing with mental health problems. Such injustices are known to impact people’s mental health negatively. If you feel strongly about any of these issues, you can support the cause by donating to the Mental Health Foundation. Alternatively, you can take part in a fundraiser event or voluntary work. 

WHY DO WE CELEBRATE WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY?

As mentioned, the purpose of World Mental Health Day is to raise awareness of and offer support with the plethora of mental health issues millions of people suffer with each day and to provide an opportunity for professionals in the field to talk about their work and experiences.

SO, WHAT DOES VAPING HAVE TO DO WITH THIS?

Studies have found that those dealing with mental health issues are more likely to smoke, more likely to be dependent on nicotine and have a greater difficulty giving up cigarettes than neurotypical smokers. Almost 90% of schizophrenics smoke and the percentage of those with bipolar and panic disorders, depression, anxiety and PTSD who smoke or are dependent on tobacco products is also very high.

This is obviously a problem, as smokers with mental health issues are also exposing themselves to the plethora of physical health problems that come with smoking, in addition to the difficulties with mental health they already face.

The solution to this problem? Electronic cigarettes and other smoking alternatives, as they satiate tobacco cravings, while allowing the smoker to avoid the deadly effects of cigarettes. Due to the absence of tobacco and combustion, the vapour produced by vapes is devoid of the harmful and carcinogenic chemicals present in tobacco.

If you’re trying to quit smoking or are new to vaping in general, please read our useful guides on How To Quit Smoking and How To Vape.

Please Browse our online store to buy e-liquids and vape starter kits.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU NEED HELP?

There are a vast multitude of support options for those facing difficulties with their mental health in the UK. Mind is a mental health charity dedicated to providing support to those dealing with a whole host of mental health issues. They offer support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem and campaign to improve services, raise awareness and promote understanding.

For those who need help with quitting smoking, please visit the NHS Stop Smoking site for advice and support.