Smokers who have a history of anxiety disorders may be less likely to quit the harmful habit, according to a new study that was published in the journal Addiction.

A team of researchers from the University of Wisconsin Center for Tobacco Research and Intervention found that individuals who had been diagnosed for anxiety or had experienced panic attacks in the past appeared to have greater difficulty quitting.

Up to 25 percent of the estimated 50 million American smokers have had at least one bout of anxiety in their lifetime.

Common interventions such as nicotine lozenges and patches - which have been proven to be very effective among smokers in the general population - did not appear to help these individuals. Those who had been diagnosed with anxiety disorders reported higher levels of nicotine dependence and withdrawal symptoms prior their attempts to quit.

Additionally, these individuals had more negative feelings immediately after smoking cessation, compared to smokers in the general population.

Teens who smoke may find the guidance and support that boarding schools can offer to be beneficial to their health, as these facilities may enable them to quit nicotine use.