What should I do if my teen is vaping?

The aerosol liquid is mixed with different chemicals, often flavored, and sometimes contains metals and herbs such as marijuana. When this liquid is heated and turned into an aerosol, new chemicals can be added. The inhaled aerosol is then absorbed by the lungs, transmitted into the bloodstream and can lead to physical dependence.

What is nicotine? 

Nicotine is a substance naturally present in tobacco leaves and can be found in varying quantities in products such as electronic cigarettes. When smoked, nicotine is absorbed through the lungs, passes into the bloodstream, and then reaches the brain and other organs of the body.

Teenagers are more sensitive to the harmful effects of nicotine than adults, since their brains are still developing. Quitting vaping with nicotine can be difficult when an addiction has set in, as it leads to compulsive cravings and withdrawal symptoms. 

Why are young people drawn to vaping?

Several factors encourage youth to try vaping products. Here are some of them:

• Young people consider vaping products to be more socially acceptable than traditional cigarettes. 
• The smell is less intrusive, and the flavors are more enticing, designed to appeal to all tastes.
• The products can easily be purchased online or via social media. 

According to results from the 2021 Canadian Tobacco and Nicotine Survey (CTNS), the main reason youth aged 15 to 19 use vaping products, with or without nicotine, is to reduce stress (33%). In contrast, 28% of youth say they vape simply because they enjoy doing it, while 24% do so out of curiosity. Thus, young people with certain personality traits such as seeking new experiences and rebellious spirit may be more likely to explore vaping.

Peer pressure is one of the main causes that drive youth to turn to vaping.  In fact, in high school, young people who vape have a circle of friends made up of 45% vapers. Among youth who do not vape, only 5% of their friends vape. Thus, an environment where consumption is present can strongly encourage your teen to vape too.

What are the risks of vaping for young people? 

• Increased exposure to certain chemicals that are harmful to health.
• Increased coughing, wheezing, and asthma.
• The development of physical dependence and/or nicotine dependence if present.
• The development of nicotine addiction at lower levels of exposure than those needed for adults.
• Interfering with the healthy brain development of adolescents can impair memory and concentration, lead to mood and impulsivity disorders, disrupt sleep, and decrease appetite and energy levels.
• Nicotine “overdoses,” if present in the vape, can cause headaches, stomach aches, diarrhea, abnormal salivation, palpitations, fatigue, confusion or dizziness. 

It is recommended to seek medical consultation if your child has several of these symptoms.

5 tips for talking about vaping with your teen

1. Take opportunities to talk about it 

For example, if you come across a group of teenagers who are vaping, you can use this opportunity to talk to your teen about it. Ask them if any of their friends vape, if they have ever considered trying it, or if they feel any pressure from peers around it. You can also talk to your teen about how to turn down an offer from another teen. The main thing is to choose a time and place where they will be receptive and open to discussing it with you.

2. Approach the subject with kindness and an open mind  

If your teen is already vaping, invite them to share their reasons for doing so, without judgment. This can help you understand where this behavior is coming from and better support your child. 

3. Discuss the effects of vaping

Talking about harmful experiences with vaping can be an effective way to educate your teen about it. Educating yourself will also help you raise awareness about the health effects of vaping and the addiction it can cause.

4. Thank your teen for opening up to you 

Thanking your child for their openness and honesty is essential.  This will reassure them and help build their trust in you, encouraging them to confide in you again if a situation arises. 

5. Encourage your teen to focus on their goals

If your teen expresses a desire to stop vaping or reduce their consumption, support them in setting their own goals and achieving them.

Reference (in french)

Gouvernement du Canada, Parler de vapotage avec votre adolescent : Une fiche de conseils pour les parents
Gouvernement du Canada, Dépendance à la nicotine
Gouvernement du Canada, Les risques du vapotage
Info.tabac.ca, Le vapotage chez les jeunes, un premier pas vers le tabagisme
Institut national de santé publique du Québec, Vapotage chez les jeunes du secondaire
Promotion de la santé CHU Sainte-Justine, Le vapotage chez les jeunes
Québec Sans Tabac, L'utilisation des produits de vapotage et de la cigarette électronique chez les jeunes