Many youth who vape believe that what they’re using is just harmless water vapor. In order to understand what they’re using and what they’re going through, it’s important to get informed about vaping before you discuss it. Show
Most vapes contain nicotine. Many even say “nicotine free” on the label. Most teens start out thinking they can stop whenever they want and won’t ever become addicted. And lots more start smoking cigarettes, a product that kills half its users. In fact, a teen who vapes is four times more likely to start smoking. On top of that, teens who vape nicotine or THC from marijuana may have trouble learning and memory issues. And the chemicals used to create vape flavorings can damage the lungs, heart, and immune system, whether or not nicotine is present. Invite your child to talk, be patient and ready to listen.If your child is caught vaping or admits to vaping, try to stay calm and non-judgmental. Listen, don’t lecture.
This is an excellent opportunity to talk about it and learn why they were doing it. Say things like, “Tell me more about what led you to vape.” and “What are some of the reasons?” Let them know you are concerned about their vape use becoming more frequent, but try to encourage them to keep talking by asking open-ended, non-judgmental questions. Try to find out if there is a deeper problem.If they vaped more than once, or are currently vaping, try to get a feel for why. For example, determine if or how their relationships with others have changed, if they are under added stress at school, if their grades have changed, or if they’re hanging out with a different crowd. Support them in quitting.If they show any interest in quitting, congratulate them, and ask which resources or strategies they think might work best for them. Talk to your doctor or suggest they check out My Life My Quit,a support program that serves Coloradans as young as 12 years old who want to quit vaping, smoking, or chewing tobacco. They can enroll themselves quickly and easily at mylifemyquit.com. Coaching is available through online chat, texting, or over the phone. Coaching is free, confidential, non-judgmental, and is shown to increase the chances of quit success. Find resources as a parent or educator to learn more about how to best support the young people in your life if they want to quit. It’s easy, and confidential – call us to learn about the different teen treatment programs we offer. Get help for your teen today. Can't talk right now? Schedule an appointment that works for you Schedule a CallCigarette smoking and alcohol drinking has become a trend for the young generation, and most parents are having a hard time dealing with this issue. While vaping devices have alleviated some of the problems related to nicotine consumption, most people are not aware of how harmful e-cigarettes really are. Nicotine addiction can have unfavorable effects on your teen’s health. Being dependent on illicit substances causes negative consequences that may be experienced in later life. In this article, you will understand the facts about vaping, its health risks and consequences, and the symptoms of its use. Furthermore, we will discuss punishments for vaping teenagers. Is Your Teen Struggling?You have options, we can help. Speak with an adolescent expert today. 800-421-4364Facts About Vaping: Myths, Effects, and RisksVaping is the inhalation of vapor through an electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) or other vaping devices that are battery-powered and portable. They come in different colors and shapes but are usually pen-like devices. Some people associate vaping with smoking and use these terms interchangeably. However, they are two different things. They have distinct features as well as chemical compositions. In any case, both can be harmful to one’s health. Vaping vs. SmokingVaping involves an e-cigarette that produces smoke by vaporizing different liquids, called “juices.” They have cartridges that contain liquid flavorings and other substances, such as nicotine. These liquids are vaporized and then inhaled. Some vape juice flavors include mint, strawberry, cotton candy, chocolate, coffee, and more. On the other hand, smoking is usually associated with cigarettes that contain tobacco rolled inside a thin paper. Both e-cigarettes and traditional cigarettes have adverse effects on a person’s health, especially on the respiratory system. Debunking the Myths About VapingDisinformation is always a problem, especially when it comes to trendy stuff and its effects on one’s health. Some people are trying to make e-cigarettes appear beneficial in order to boost their sales. Listed below are some myths surrounding vapes, along with the truths to debunk them.
Health Risks and Dangers of VapingAlthough e-cigarettes are not as harmful as other tobacco products, they contain numerous chemicals such as nicotine, formaldehyde, and acetaldehyde. They pose health risks and may cause chronic lung injuries and cardiovascular or heart ailments. Furthermore, people with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are likely to suffer severe consequences when vaping. In a recent report by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), in December 2018, there was a “dramatic increase” in the use of vaping or electronic cigarettes among teens in America, with an alarming record of 37.3% of high school seniors had vaped in the previous year. As a parent, you must know how to talk to your kid about vaping, Read the article and prepare yourself for the talk, before the talk. Speak to a Teen Expert For Free. No Wait List!Our Goal Is To Help Your Teen Be Happier. We Know How To Help 800-421-4364Vaping also causes damage to the central nervous system (CNS). The dangerous substances in e-cigarettes can affect the brain’s overall functioning, making someone lose coordination and concentration. These may also affect the nerves, leading to muscle spasms and tremors. Loss of proper judgment and decision-making abilities might lead to aggressive and risky behaviors. A teen might get involved in fistfights, road rage, or accidents. Lastly, teens who vape are more likely to develop smoking or drug addiction habits when they grow older. E-cigarettes that contain nicotine develop one’s dependence on drugs, making them “hooked.” Not being able to inhale something makes them experience withdrawal symptoms. This will end up increasing their tolerance to other illicit substances such as marijuana, cocaine, and heroin. Is Your Teen in Trouble for Vaping?Vaping does not only pose health risks to teens, but it can also be punishable by law. When it comes to the use of e-cigarettes, the most common question that comes to mind is, “Is vaping legal?” In the United States, the use and sale of e-cigarettes to adults are allowed. In 2016, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) implemented the regulation of e-cigarettes as tobacco products. However, the FDA prohibits the sale of vapes to minors. California is one of the few states that banned the use and sale of flavored e-cigarettes and menthol cigarettes in 2020. However, as of March 2021, at least 15 American states allow vaping while upholding the law for smoke-free indoors, including California. Different localities and communities in California impose different restrictions on the use of e-cigarettes. The entire state prohibits the use of e-cigarettes in workplaces, hospitals, daycare facilities, food facilities, Farmers’ Market (within 25 feet), cars (with minors), public transportation, and school playgrounds. The legal age for vaping in the US is 21 years old. Anyone under that age that gets caught vaping, especially in public places, might be punished by law and face legal consequences. Many parents suspect that their teen has been vaping, but they don’t have proof. If you believe that your teen is vaping, Our article How to tell if your teen is vaping will help you find all the answers. Symptoms of Vaping in TeensBehavioral changes, such as your teen being suddenly irritable, might be a sign of vaping addiction. They might also withdraw from social groups or family and lock themselves up inside their rooms. Your teen’s school may call you due to their declining academic performance or poor attendance. If your teen is vaping, you may also notice tangible signs, such as seeing unfamiliar objects inside their school bags and bedrooms or their clothes smelling sweet. Their overall health will be affected by e-cigarettes. Your teen may experience dry coughing and mouth sores. In the worst scenario, a teen who consumes multiple e-cigarettes every day may develop lung scarring and inflammation. Furthermore, excessive amounts of nicotine or marijuana can lead to memory loss at an older age. Ways to Punish Your Teen for VapingNow that you are aware of the hazards brought by e-cigarettes, you have every right to punish your teen for vaping. It does not matter if they are only using it for recreational purposes. Vaping is still addictive and damaging. Some ways to punish your child are scolding and grounding them. Vaping at HomeYou can set some house rules to deter your child from vaping. These can include picking them up from school to limit their independence, not allowing them to go outside on their own, and setting curfew hours for going to bed. These will help you monitor their behavior and prevent them from smoking e-cigarettes inside and outside your house. Vaping Within School PremisesPunishments for vaping in school, conversely, depend on the rules and regulations set by the institution. Most kids use vape pens because they cannot be easily recognized as e-cigarettes. Common punishments include community service, one-week suspension for first or second offenses, and even expulsion for repeated behavior. What Happens if You are Caught Vaping?There are penalties for underage teenagers who vape. While possession of e-cigarettes and other vaping devices is not punishable by law, the use of such devices has legal consequences. For the first offense, your teen must pay a penalty of at least $100. For the second offense, fees go up to $500, then $2500 for the third offense. They are also required to attend lessons on the health risks of vaping and render community services. For repeated behaviors, teens 17 and below may be sent to juvenile hall, but if your teen is 18 or above, they may be sent to an adult jail. How Can You Discipline Your Vaping Teen?Here are some practical methods to discipline your teen and get teenagers to stop vaping:
If your teen’s behavior is beyond your control, you can always reach out to us and seek professional help. We are ready to help your teen quit vaping by using our addiction treatment program for troubled teens and counseling programs. How do I not get caught vaping?There are several ways to minimize or hide the vapor you exhale. Swallowing the vapor before breathing out gently through your nose is a good way of eliminating the visible evidence of your vape device. Sometimes an extra breath between inhaling and exhaling can also combat vapor.
What do schools do when a student Vapes?What Are Schools Doing?. Installation of 'Vape' Detectors. This has been done by many schools as noted in this media report. ... . Swipe Cards. ... . CCTV Systems. ... . Bag and Locker Searches and Confiscation of Contraband. ... . Enrolment Agreements. ... . Education Campaigns. ... . Staff and Parent Training. ... . Behaviour Management Policies.. How do I punish my 13 year old for vaping?Most kids use vape pens because they cannot be easily recognized as e-cigarettes. Common punishments include community service, one-week suspension for first or second offenses, and even expulsion for repeated behavior.
What to do when you find out your 12 year old is vaping?Invite your child to talk, be patient and ready to listen.
If your child is caught vaping or admits to vaping, try to stay calm and non-judgmental. Listen, don't lecture. Try to understand their feelings. Avoid showing judgment.
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