Today, more high school students use e-cigarettes than regular cigarettes and the use of e-cigarettes is higher among high school students than adults.
One problem with e-cigarettes and vaping is that teens hear that it’s not as bad for your health as smoking cigarettes and many think there is no harm.
Without lecturing, here are a few ways you can bring up the subject with your teen. If you feel you need backup, you can call 1-877-645-9675 to make an appointment with your Canyonlands Primary Care Physician or Behavioral Health specialist to have a conversation with your teen about vaping and the effects of nicotine on the brain.
Remember, your goal is to have a conversation — not to deliver a lecture.
A more natural discussion will increase the likelihood that your teen will listen. If you need support, you can meet with a Canyonlands Primary Care Physician. Rather than saying “we need to talk,” you might ask your teen what he or she thinks about a situation you witness together, such as:
- Seeing someone use an e-cigarette in person or in a video.
- Passing an e-cigarette shop when you are walking or driving.
- Seeing an e-cigarette advertisement in a store or magazine or on the internet.
Many parents find that texting is a great way to reach their teens. Here are some suggestions for text messages that might catch your teen’s attention.
If you are concerned that your child has already become addicted to nicotine or other substances, keep the conversation going. If you need support, request an appointment your Canyonlands primary care provider or Behavioral Health specialist.
Treatment for Addiction and Substance Use Disorders
Canyonlands Healthcare offers confidential Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) for Substance Use Disorders. You can self-refer without a medical provider and same day appointments are available. Learn more at opioid-help.org
Dangers of Vaping on the Brain and Lungs
Until age 25, the brain is still developing, which means teens are more vulnerable to addiction. Many e-cigarettes contain nicotine, and using nicotine can change the brain to crave more nicotine. It can also affect memory and concentration.
Besides nicotine, e-cigarettes can contain harmful and potentially harmful ingredients, including:
- the same harmful chemicals found in cleaning products, nail polish remover, weed killer and bug spray
- toxins such as formaldehyde and heavy metals
- ultrafine particles that can be inhaled deep into the lungs
- flavouring chemicals such as diacetyl (a chemical linked to serious lung disease).
Set a positive example by being tobacco-free yourself. For free help, visit smokefree.gov or call 1-800-QUIT-NO
