Learning Objectives: State the prevalence of drug use and mental health symptomology between rural smokers and nonsmokers.
Abstract:
Problem/Objective: Young adulthood is a highly stressful period (e.g., impending adulthood, transition to college, making new friends) that may bring feelings of depression and anxiety. Mental health issues coupled with a low level of perceived social support may be important factors in tobacco and other substance use. This study provides useful information on possible psychosocial correlates of tobacco and other substance use that may be utilized for developing prevention and intervention programs for rural youth.
METHODS: Participants (aged 18-22) were 71 (28 males, 43 females) smokers and 98 (48 males, 50 females) nonsmokers from Appalachia. Measures to assess social support, self-esteem, substance use, and depression and anxiety were completed.
RESULTS: Smokers binge drank, used alcohol, marijuana, and hard drugs (e.g., ecstacy) significantly more than nonsmokers, ps < .01. Smokers also were more motivated to use and had a higher loss of behavioral control concerning alcohol and other drug use than nonsmokers, ps<.01. There were no significant differences between smokers and nonsmokers for depression, anxiety, or self-esteem after controlling for perceived social support. Gender differences were found for depression and anxiety with females reporting higher levels than males, ps<.05. Discussion: The results of this research highlight the association between smoking and other substance use. Social support and gender appear to be main factors in mental health outcomes. In order to develop effective substance (e.g., tobacco, alcohol) use prevention and intervention programs in rural young adult populations, psychosocial factors (e.g., social support, mental health) and gender may need to be considered.
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