Understanding the physiological and mental health effects of vaping, particularly among teens and young adults.
What used to be considered a mostly harmless recreational activity (even marketed as much less harmful than cigarette smoking) is now revealed to be an addictive practice with physiological and mental effects, specifically among teens and young adults.
Important: We are just learning about some of the effects. Because the chemical additives in vaping liquids most often including nicotine, some of the physiological effects are the same as what the body experiences with nicotine consumption.
Difficulty concentrating and memory loss
Moodiness or mood swings
Lung irritation and bronchial damage
Risk of developing other addictions
What is experienced physically can range from the smoke being an irritant to the lungs and bronchial passageways to, as in recent news stories, serious damage to the lungs or even death.
And this is just what is known. Many physicians advise that the medical community is still unaware of the long-term effects, because vaping is so new.
In a recent study that examined the increasing use of vaping among university students, many users exhibited behaviors associated with mental health and drug-use problems.
The study concluded that while there is a need for long-term, continued research, clinicians and mental health practitioners should be aware of certain mental health conditions that are more common in e-cigarette users.
According to the report:
"Those who used e-cigarettes were significantly more likely to have mental health histories of ADHD, PTSD, gambling disorder and anxiety, report low self-esteem, and endorse traits of impulsivity."
Those of us who are in a position to influence or care for young people, can encourage them to be empowered to take responsibility for their health. As with anyone of any age, addictive substances can send quality of life on a drastic decline.
Encourage them to be empowered to take responsibility for their health
Provide access to support groups and resources
Share information on affirmative behaviors that redirect thought processes
Teach coping skills and healthy daily activities
Early intervention and compassionate support can make all the difference in helping young people avoid or overcome vaping addiction and its associated mental health challenges.
The team at Nugent Family Counseling Center brings decades of combined experience helping individuals, couples, and families navigate mental health challenges with compassion and expertise.
If you're concerned about vaping, addiction, or mental health challenges affecting a young person in your life, our experienced therapists can help. We work with teens, young adults, and families to address addiction, ADHD, PTSD, anxiety, and more.