While there are a number of models explaining emotional intelligence, there are few—if any—that explain its application to clinical practice. The following article helps to address this by suggesting ways in which mental health nurses could use emotional intelligence as part of their clinical work.

People with mental illness die up to 25 years earlier than the general population commonly as the result of non-communicable diseases, such as cancers, cardiovascular disease and respiratory disease. The aetiology of these diseases is often associated with smoking and being overweight. This article reviews how nurses working in mental health services can support their patients to address these often neglected physical health issues. As part of a placement with a public health team, the first author reviewed available literature on smoking and weight management relating to people with mental illness. In addition, interviews about physical health inequalities were held with a local mental health service provider, and local smoking cessation and weight management services. Nurses are in an ideal position to motivate patients to tackle their physical health problems through effectively implemented smoking cessation and weight management interventions. These should be tailored for individual needs and be provided for patients in both community and hospital settings. Two good practice guides have also been developed to support nurses help their patients address smoking and unhealthy weight.