References:

1. Government of Canada – Preventing kids and teens from vaping
2. Drug Free Kids Canada – Youth and Vaping: a growing trend
3. Caring for Kids – Talking with your teen about vaping

What is Vaping?

• Inhaling aerosol from an e-cigarette or a similar device
• The e-liquid inside contains nicotine or cannabis, and other chemicals
• Can look like pens, and USB flash drives

How Does Vaping Affect Teen’s Brains and Bodies?

• Negative affect on memory and concentration
• Alteration in brain development
• Reduction in impulse control
• Potential behavioural and cognitive problems
• Potential lung damage and lung disease
• Potential to predispose teens to nicotine addiction
• The long term consequences of vaping are unknown

How Many Teens Are Vaping?

• The vaping rate is highest among 15-24 year old Canadians
• 29% of Canadian students have tried an e-cigarette

Why are Teens Vaping?

• Enjoyment
• Wanting to experiment
• To reduce stress
• When a teens’ friends vape, they are more likely to try vaping

How are Teens Getting Vaping Products?

• The majority of youth are not getting vaping products from stores as it is illegal to sell vaping products to anyone under the age of 18 in Canada
• They are getting them from friends, family, and acquaintances

How Can I tell if My Teen is Vaping?

• The best way to find out if your teen is vaping is to ask them and have an open conversation
• Potential signs your teen is vaping are:
  • Changes in mood and/or increased irritability
  • Changes in the ability to focus and concentrate
  • Coughing, wheezing, and asthma exacerbation
  • Teen may smell sweet, from the flavour of the e-liquid
  • Spending more time with friends who vape

How Do I Talk to My Teen About Vaping?

• Be patient and ready to listen to your teen
• You may need to have multiple conversations
• Educate yourself about the risks of vaping and offer what you’ve learned to your teen
• Try to have an open conversation
• Avoid criticising your teen
• Use situations like passing a group of teens vaping or seeing vaping on TV to initiate conversations

Further Your Learning:

1. Government of Canada – Preventing kids and teens from vaping
2. Drug Free Kids Canada – Youth and Vaping: a growing trend

Shareable Resources For Clients:

1. Government of Canada – Preventing kids and teens from vaping
2. Caring for Kids – Talking with your teen about vaping