This week Greystone and Ancora Psychiatric hospitals became entirely smoke free environments. Smoking is already banned inside the two facilities and as of Wednesday, smoking is no longer allowed anywhere on hospital grounds.

A study by the National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors Medical Directors Council in 2006 revealed that people with mental illness live an average of 25 years less than the general population.  Approximately 75 percent are estimated to be addicted to nicotine, which contributes to premature death.

In April 2008, Governor Corzine, signed legislation into law that permits a smoking ban on the grounds of state psychiatric hospitals leading the way for this weeks actions. Shortly after the legislation was signed, the Department of Human services began implementing smoking cessation programs for staff and patients.

"This initiative mirrors what is being done at hospitals, medical centers and corporations throughout the country and supports the Division of Mental Health Services' efforts to embrace a system which focuses on wellness and recovery," said Human Services Commissioner Jennifer Velez. "The advocacy of the Governor and legislators was essential in taking this step to support both patient and employee health."

"Studies show definitively that nicotine addiction negatively affects both clinical outcomes and life span in psychiatric patients, particularly," said DHS Deputy Commissioner Kevin Martone.

The ban will soon be extended to the three other state psychiatric hospitals – Hagedorn Psychiatric Hospital, Ann Klein Forensic Center and Trenton Psychiatric.