Tobacco causes a staggering 50% of deaths in those who use it, yet there is evidence that behavioral health care professionals don’t do enough to intervene and provide treatment. Tobacco use rates, although declining in the general population, are still two to three times higher in individuals with a behavioral health condition (mental illness or addiction) and this group consumes at least a third of the tobacco sold in the United States. Tobacco use also negatively impacts recovery from other substances and leads to poorer health and mental health. This session will provide updates in treatment and review relevant issues related to poor outcomes including levels of nicotine dependence and lack of access to cessation treatments. It includes practical techniques for assessment as well as evidence based practices for counseling and pharmacotherapy. Techniques for working with lower motivated tobacco users are also reviewed.

Presenter: Jill Williams, MD,  Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University