People with Severe Mental Illness (SMI) consume nearly half of all tobacco sold in the US (Lasser, Boyd, Woolhander, Himmelstein, McCormick, & Bor, 2000). Compared to the general population, individuals diagnosed with SMI are at greater risk of co-morbid health problems and premature death (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2002; National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors, 2006). Often individuals with SMI are unaware of supportive services such as Quitlines, Nicotine Anonymous (NIC-A) meetings, and/ or Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT). To compound matters, many states have cut tobacco cessation funding, and few mental health programs provide integrated approaches to tobacco cessation. Programs lack trained staff or peers to assist people with SMI who wish to quit or to learn about the harmful consequences of tobacco use (e.g. cigarettes, cigars, or chewing tobacco). However, evidence suggests that people with SMI can be successful in quitting. This Issue Brief describes our efforts to engage this population in tobacco cessation activities.

Individuals with serious mental illness (SMI) have significantly greater risk of comorbid health problems and premature death, and there is need for interventions that can improve physical fitness and overall health. Accordingly, a study was conducted which evaluated the effectiveness of a structured physical exercise program that was developed as part of a wellness project in an ICCD Certified Clubhouse. Seventeen clubhouse members completed a 16-week program with evidence of significant improvement in aerobic capacity and perceived mental health as well as positive trends in perceived improvements in physical and social functioning. Qualitative data indicated satisfaction with the program by all participants, especially the value of group support, while also highlighting the need for greater attention to nutrition as part of a future program. Moreover, the study found that a structured exercise program can be successfully provided to members of an ICCD Certified Clubhouse.