Vapes are battery-operated devices that work by heating a liquid (or ‘juice’) until it becomes an aerosol that users inhale. They often resemble cigarettes but can look like a pen, highlighter, or USB in an attempt to appeal to young people. They can be identified by taking the “cap” off a suspected item to see if it has a mouthpiece.
Vaping amongst young people is rising and debate among the experts is heated. The main reason for vapes we are told is to assist people who smoke to quit however as the statistics indicate, young people who have never smoked before are experimenting and using vapes. In Australia, we know that the liquid or juice used in vapes is unregulated, meaning we cannot be sure of its contents. Advertisements tell us that the vape liquid is nicotine-free however research and testing tell us the opposite.
As of the 1st October 2021, nicotine vaping products can only be purchased with a valid doctor’s prescription. The main reason a GP will provide this prescription is to people who smoke and want to quit but have tried all of the other available medications. Nicotine vaping products can only be used by people named on the prescription nor can they be provided to family or friends. Advertising and promotion of vaping products is illegal in Australia; however, these companies are exploiting social media as an information source and glamourising their products to appeal to young people. Read what Cancer Council Australia had to say regarding this:
“In recent years we have also seen the proliferation of shops selling enticing non-nicotine e-cigarettes and liquids with thousands of attractive flavours like green apple ice, cinnamon roll and alpha mint. These are purely recreational products that have no place in our market for either kids or adults.”
Young people who consume nicotine through vaping can cause harm to their developing brain. This leads to a greater risk of developing a dependence with some research now suggesting that early vape use can lead to later tobacco dependence. Whether a young person has just started to vape or has been vaping for a while, there is still hope of overcoming the dependence through counselling support. With previous experience in assisting people to overcome their addictions, I can work alongside you and your family to develop a plan that will help your young person to overcome it. If you have concerns that your young person might be vaping, please get in touch with me. Early intervention is always best.
Anthony Ryan – School Counsellor
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