More than 2.1 million youth currently use vapes, making it the most-used tobacco product in middle and high schools.* Adolescence is a time when teens want to experiment and try new things. It is also a time when they face greater peer pressure and want to fit in. 

As teens’ brains are developing, they are at increased risk of becoming addicted to nicotine. Since the adolescent brain is still developing, vaping presents greater risks. Vaping can harm parts of the brain that control attention, learning, memory, mood, and impulse control.

It is important to understand what a vape device looks like, the signs of vaping, and what to do if you suspect your child might be vaping. Even if you do not suspect your teen is vaping, still take time to talk to them about the dangers of vaping. Open communication and information can help keep your teen safe.

What are the Signs of Vaping?

Signs of vaping include:

• Recent coughing or wheezing.
• New smells such as fruity or sweet scents.
• Increased changes in mood, being anxious or depressed beyond typical teenage moodiness.

Starting the Conversation

Be curious rather than judgmental. 

Ask your teen what they know about vaping, what they have seen and heard, and what they think about it. Ask friendly, open-ended questions and let them do most of the talking. Do not worry if the conversation is short. The most important thing is to start talking.

Find teachable moments. 

Look for natural opportunities to discuss vaping. Examples might include seeing a vape store or advertisement, being around a person who vapes, or seeing a news story or social media post about vaping. Start by listening to what your teen thinks before you share your own opinions and comments.

Share your own experiences. 

If you have smoked or vaped, discuss how you started and how it affected you. Hearing how you quit – or why you have not – can serve as a powerful example.

Share the facts you have learned. 

Vaping exposes teens to dangerous and addictive chemicals. Vaping is not safer than smoking. In fact, serious lung damage has been identified in young people who vaped for a relatively short time. Share these facts and express concern for your teen’s health and development.

Help them make a plan. 

Teens may feel peer pressure to vape with their friends. One way to help them resist is to discuss in advance how they can respond. You can help come up with ideas and practice what to say and do.

Be patient. 

Vaping is a tough addiction to break. Research shows that it takes numerous attempts to successfully quit vaping.

LiveVape Free Callout - Help them quit when they are ready.

Teens need to know you are there to help rather than judge. Visit LiveVapeFree.com to get free help for yourself and your teen.

*Source: 2023 National Youth Tobacco Survey