Though smoking is a common habit among people of various backgrounds, it’s more prevalent among a certain group of people: felons. A study on cigarette use after being in an American prison revealed that over 97% of individuals smoke six months after being released. Another 50-83% were also smokers before incarceration, so returning to the habit is highly likely after required abstinence in confinement. Smoking poses many life challenges to felons, which is why it’s important to address it. Here’s more on why felons are more likely to smoke, the challenges they face, and solutions to this problem:
Why felons are more likely to smoke cigarettes
Being imprisoned has many negative effects. It disconnects you from loved ones and society, results in a loss of autonomy, and ultimately causes stress that can spur smoking. In fact, research from the journal Tobacco Use Insights concluded that, generally, involvement with the justice system is a negative health factor that increases smoking. This is due to stress factors, traumatic experiences in imprisonment, and having bad feelings from having a “criminal” label.
Current challenges faced by felons who smoke
Trouble finding employment
A report on former convicts by CBS News finds that more than 19 million people with felonies on their permanent record find it more difficult to get work. However, being a smoker can make job hunting more challenging. A portion of your finances is reserved for buying cigarettes, which may affect your credit score and deter employers. You may also have a record of taking multiple sick days because of smoking, implying you’re not fit to work.
Facing social stigma when dating
Being judged for your criminal records can prevent you from having a successful dating life. Our post “Felonies and Relationships” shares that the fear of rejection can keep you from being honest and establishing meaningful connections based on trust. You may also have to constantly explain your conviction as you meet multiple people, leading to emotional distress. Cigarette use can make building relationships more difficult and may even be considered a deal-breaker for some. Aside from having health consequences, it can also cause financial problems when you merge finances.
Existing solutions for felons who use cigarettes
Nicotine replacement therapy
Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) is a procedure where you’re given smoke-free products—like nicotine pouches and patches—to assist you in deviating from cigarette use. Nicotine pouches are placed between your lip and gum for up to an hour. If your smoking habit predates your arrest, you may want to get your nicotine pouches from Juice Head. They come in strengths between 6 to 12 mg of nicotine—stronger variants more suitable for helping heavier smokers quit more successfully. Unlike pouches that derive nicotine from the tobacco plant, these also use synthetic nicotine to ensure they’re completely tobacco-free. For a non-oral option, consider nicotine patches that are placed on the skin. These continuously deliver nicotine to your bloodstream, which is best if you used to smoke constantly. Try the nicotine patches from Nicoderm CQ to get up to 21 mg of nicotine over the course of 24 hours.
Government smoking cessation programs
If you need further assistance to quit, consider joining government-run smoking cessation programs. Here, health experts will evaluate your situation, partner you with a quit coach, and give you access to the products, medications, and support groups you may need. Try calling 1-800-QUIT-NOW to access the Health and Human Services BeTobaccoFree campaign. This program provides quitting experts and apps to guide your journey. Consider the National Cancer Institute’s Smokefree.gov website, too. It has tips for quitting, such as how to try NRT best or build your quit plan. These programs can assist you in building a plan that addresses your specific needs, allowing you to quit the habit. Since they serve people of all backgrounds and are accessible online or via landline, you don’t have to worry about being judged or discriminated against for having a criminal record, either.
Smoking presents many personal, social, and career challenges to felons. Despite this, you can always stop the habit to improve your quality of life.
