Evaluation of alexithymia, anger and anxiety depression levels in smokers

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective Smokingis a major mental health concern due to its addictive nature and its status asthe leading preventable cause of premature death worldwide. This study aimed toexamine the levels of alexithymia, anger, anxiety, and depression in smokerscompared to nonsmokers. Materials and Methods Thiscase-control study involved 176 smokers from a Smoking Cessation Clinic and 175age- and gender-matched nonsmokers. Participants completed assessments usingthe Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20), State-Trait Anger Expression Inventory(STAXI), and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Nicotine dependencein smokers was measured using the Fagerström Nicotine Dependency Test.Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 22.0. Findings Significantdifferences were observed between smokers and nonsmokers in TAS, TAS-1, TAS-2,HADS-A, and HADS-D scores. Smokers exhibited higher levels of alexithymia, anger expression, and anxiety, while nonsmokers demonstrated better angercontrol. Additionally, addiction levels in smokers were associated withvariations in TAS, TAS-1, TAS-2, TAS-3, STAXI scores (SA, AC, AI, AO), andHADS-A, highlighting a complex interplay between addiction, psychologicalfactors, and smoking habits. Result This study establishes a link between smoking status, addictionlevels, and elevated alexithymia, anger, anxiety, and depression. The findingsunderscore the psychological impact of smoking, contributing valuable insightsfor mental health interventions in individuals with smoking habits.