Bidirectional Associations Between Depressive Symptoms and Cigarette Use During Young Adulthood: a Survival Analysis Approach

This study provides evidence of bidirectional associations between cigarette use and depressive symptoms across young adulthood. Clinically significant depressive symptoms elevated the risk of cigarette initiation. Further, cigarette use elevated the risk of new-onset depressive symptoms. These findings have implications for prevention and intervention programs with young adults. Specifically, findings support the delivery of anti-smoking resources to young adults experiencing depression and the delivery of mental health resources to young adults who use cigarettes.