Addie Hunter is 17 years old and loves spending time on Copan High School’s basketball court, shooting some hoops. Looking at her now, no one will believe that just four months ago, she was fighting for her life in the hospital.
The reason? Fox 23 reports that she used to vape incessantly, which caused blisters in her lungs, leading to a collapse. Yes, vaping nearly killed this bubbly teenage girl.
According to the Child Mind Institute, teenagers are led to believe that vapes are less harmful than cigarettes. There are fun flavors to choose from, and the sleek, enticing design attracts them to this ‘bad’ hobby. Research has proven multiple times that vaping is detrimental to a child’s heart and lung health.
While we’re somewhat aware of the physical effects of vaping, we are still clueless about how it affects a teen’s mental health. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how vaping can be detrimental to their emotional well-being and more.
8 Effects of Vaping on a Teen’s Mental Health
The CAMH reports that smoking nicotine releases dopamine chemicals that are mood-altering, leading to addiction. Inhaled nicotine can affect the brain within 20 seconds, making it more dangerous than opioids, alcohol, and cocaine.
According to Psychiatry.org, since 2014, vapes have become the most common tobacco product among youth. At least 14% of high school students use vapes. This statistic proves the prevalence of its use. Unfortunately, the accessibility of vaping products at offline and online stores contributes to this.
Teenagers often choose vaping because of social, emotional, and biological factors. Other reasons may include peer pressure and the need for social acceptance. Some even choose this because they want to explore the new technology and flavor.
The harmful effects of vaping include the risks of cancer, vaping use-associated lung injury, etc. When it comes to a teen’s mental health, vaping can be detrimental in the following ways:
- Nicotine impacts behavior and mood, leading to addiction.
- It can exacerbate anxiety and stress among teens.
- They’ll exclude themselves from non-vaping peers, leading to social withdrawal.
- Self-esteem issues can arise from dependence on vaping.
- Withdrawal symptoms can lead to depression.
- Teens can become impulsive and engage in risky behavior.
- Vapes can affect memory and concentration, which can negatively affect their academics.
- Family conflicts can arise due to arguments over vaping, causing strain in relationships.
How Can Teenagers Quit Vaping?
A teen’s family, teachers, and friends should attempt to help them quit vaping. They’ll need consistent support to prevent smoking nicotine products altogether.
First, they need to acknowledge their addiction and seek support. A healthcare professional can help them create a plan to gradually reduce their intake without going cold turkey. After that, they’ll have to avoid triggers and replace vaping with healthier habits.
They can also follow these tips to aid in this journey:
- Picking a quit day, telling friends, and adding reminders.
- Discarding all vape supplies in a public garbage bin.
- Understanding the withdrawal symptoms.
- Performing other activities when cravings hit.
Quitting vaping will truly require patience, commitment, and determination.
What Are Some Smoking Cessation Resources?
Smoking cessation resources can help teenagers quit nicotine entirely. Fact.MR reports that this industry is expected to grow at a 9.2% CAGR between 2024 and 2034.
This proves teenagers can access various options. However, they should start with the following:
#1. Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT)
NRT products deliver controlled nicotine amounts to the body. With this consistent dosage, teenagers won’t have to go through withdrawal symptoms. Examples include nicotine inhalers, patches, gummies, sprays, etc.
These products eventually lower nicotine dependence, making it easy to slowly quit vaping.
#2. Using Nicotine-Free Vapes
There are some nicotine-free vaping products that teens can enjoy. These are perfect for people who get stress relief from the act of inhaling and exhaling smoke. Some teens can satisfy their oral fixation with these products.
It’s also a great way to be socially affected without harming one’s mental or physical health.
#3. Going for Medications
Many teens don’t know that they can use prescription drugs to reduce their dependence on vaping. Medications like Chantix and Nortriptyline can mimic the action of vaping while reducing withdrawal symptoms.
However, the dosages should be taken under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
All in all, teenagers need to be aware of the harmful effects of vaping on their physical and mental health. For instance, their grades might deteriorate due to nicotine dependence. Similarly, they might face familial challenges, anxiety, and self-esteem issues.
Teenagers will need support from their families and communities to quit vaping using the right methods. They can also choose safer alternatives, join therapy, etc.