Evaluation of the Level of Anxiety, Depression and Motivation of Smokers Seeking Treatment for Smoking Cessation in the Federal District

Abstract

Introduction: Anxiety, depression and low motivation can interfere with successful treatment of smoking. Objective: To evaluate the level of anxiety, depression and motivation of smokers enrolled in cessation programs in the Federal District. Method: A cross-sectional study involving 1,233 smokers enrolled at 19 Reference Centers. Instruments: Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, motivation (Richmond test), and forms with social and demographic data. For data analysis, where appropriate, the Student t test, chi-square and Spearman correlation were used. Results: Women had higher level of anxiety (p<0.01), depression (p<0.01), and motivation (p<0.01) for smoking cessation when compared with men. There was no difference between motivation and socio-demographic variables (p>0.05). Low income and low education levels were associated with anxiety (p<0.01 and p<0.03) and depression (p<0.01 and p<0.04) levels. Age of smoking initiation was associated with level of depression, the younger the onset of smoking, the greater likelihood of depression (p<0.02). There was no correlation between number of cigarettes per day and level of motivation to quit smoking, and levels of anxiety and depression. The motivation was not associated with anxiety and depression. Conclusion: There was association regarding levels of anxiety, depression and smoking. About 30% of smokers presented likely levels of anxiety and depression, among those 50% had high motivation to quit smoking, especially women. Those results indicate the importance of assessing these symptoms and motivation at the beginning of treatment to raise the rates of cessation.