Final answer:
A dually-diagnosed patient wishing to quit smoking should consider nicotine replacement therapy to lessen withdrawal symptoms, cognitive strategies to combat psychological dependencies, and seek medical and educational support. NRT alone is not very successful long-term, so a comprehensive plan is essential for quitting.
Step-by-step explanation:
For a dually-diagnosed patient who is stabilized on psychiatric medications and wants to quit smoking, a multi-faceted approach may be necessary. One key method is nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), which could include nicotine gums, lozenges, or patches that provide nicotine to reduce withdrawal symptoms without the harmful effects of tobacco smoke. It's important to note, however, that NRT alone has a high relapse rate, with about 90% of individuals starting to smoke again within a year.
Another important aspect is addressing the cognitive components of smoking, such as rationalization or denial. Cognitive strategies might involve countering these thoughts or adding new cognitions to reinforce the benefits of not smoking. It is also advisable for the patient not to smoke, especially while sick, as smoking can exacerbate certain conditions like bronchitis.
While educational programs about the dangers of smoking may provide minimal motivation to quit, they help maintain awareness of the health risks associated with smoking. Continuous support through both education and cessation programs is crucial, especially for those dealing with psychiatric conditions that are managed by psychoactive drugs. Additionally, the support of medical professionals during the quitting process, especially for individuals with substance dependencies, is critical for safety and success.