vAPING

Why We Talk About Vaping

Having open and non-judgmental discussions with your children about vaping is crucial. WYWETALK, is here to provide valuable insights, guidance, resources, and support to help you navigate these conversations effectively. The consequences of vaping have both long term and short term effects. Not only does it expose adolescents to highly addictive substances, but it also poses serious health risks, including lung damage, cardiovascular problems, and other potential long-term effects yet to be fully understood. It’s important for parents to address the pressures surrounding vaping and provide accurate information about its risks. As a parent, you play a vital role in guiding your children towards healthier choices. Creating a supportive and non-judgmental environment, fostering open dialogue, and emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making can help your child resist the temptation to vape.

Facts About Vaping

One vape pod contains 20 cigarettes worth of nicotine.

Approximately two-thirds of youth using vapes aged 15 – 24 do not know that vapes always contains nicotine.

An estimated 20% (5 million) of adolescents in the US use e-cigarettes. This is a 135% increase in only two years.

20.6% of 12th graders reported using e-cigarettes in the past month.

The Truth Initiative’s survey found that 82% of young e-cigarette users said they started using e-cigarettes because they were curious after seeing friends use them.

Contributing Factors

Peer Influence
Peer Influence
Advertising and Marketing
Advertising
Family Influence
Family Influence
Appetite Suppression
appetite-vaping
Misinformation About Safety
Misinformation
Curiosity and Experimentation
Curiosity
Emotional or Social Coping Mechanism
Emotional Coping Mechanism

Contributing Factors

Peer Influence
Peer pressure is one of the primary reasons kids may feel compelled to vape. Friends or classmates who vape may exert influence by making it seem popular, cool, or socially accepted, leading others to feel the need to conform and fit in.
Advertising and Marketing
Aggressive marketing campaigns by e-cigarette companies have targeted young audiences, using appealing flavors, attractive packaging, and endorsements by influencers or celebrities. These tactics can create a perception of vaping as trendy, glamorous, and desirable, making it harder for kids to resist the pressure.
Family Influence
Parents who vape inadvertently normalize the behavior, leading impressionable youth to believe it is harmless. Additionally, the lack of open communication and the influence of older siblings and relatives further perpetuate the acceptance of vaping within the family. This normalization not only increases the likelihood of experimentation but also raises the risk of future tobacco use.
Appetite Suppression
Nicotine acts as an appetite suppressant, reducing feelings of hunger. Adolescents may use vaping as a misguided strategy to manage their weight or conform to societal beauty standards. However, this approach is concerning, as it can disrupt healthy eating patterns, hinder proper nutrition, and potentially lead to long-term consequences for their physical and mental well-being.
Misinformation About Safety
Some kids may mistakenly believe that vaping is harmless or less harmful than smoking traditional cigarettes due to misleading information or lack of awareness about the potential health risks.
Curiosity and Experimentation
Adolescence is a time of exploration and experimentation. Some kids may be curious about vaping or tempted to try it out of a desire for new experiences or to rebel against authority.
Emotional or Social Coping Mechanism
Some kids may turn to vaping as a way to cope with stress, anxiety, or other emotional challenges they face. They may see it as a way to self-soothe or fit in with a certain social group.
Vaping Translations

Identifying Terminology

Vaping poses significant dangers to the health and well-being of young individuals. It’s important to be aware of the terminology commonly used when discussing vaping, as it can provide insights into their engagement with this risky behavior. Awareness of the terminology can help parents better understand and communicate with teenagers during vaping-related conversations. 

Identifying Terminology

Vaping poses significant dangers to the health and well-being of young individuals. It’s important to be aware of the terminology commonly used when discussing vaping, as it can provide insights into their engagement with this risky behavior. Awareness of the terminology can help parents better understand and communicate with teenagers during vaping-related conversations.

Know The Emojis: 😂 💨 🆙

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Terminology Translation

What Does It Look Like?

Now that you know the basics of having awesome conversations, it’s time to spot the warning signs that your child might be giving off, indicating that it’s time to step in and start a chat. We always suggest being proactive rather than reactive, so just click the slider to the left to get a better idea of the signs your child might be showing.

How Are They Getting It?

According to Wyoming state law, anyone under the age of 21 is not allowed to purchase nicotine or tobacco. However, vaping devices and e-liquids are readily available through various channels, making it incredibly easy for adolescents to obtain them without much resistance. Vape shops, convenience stores, and even some gas stations often fail to enforce strict age restrictions, allowing adolescents to purchase vaping products. Peer-to-peer transactions and sharing among friends also contribute to the ease of access, further amplifying the problem. Additionally, adolescents are likely to get it from parents/siblings who vape themselves.

Hidden Dangers

Vaping, despite its widespread popularity, carries hidden dangers, particularly for adolescents who may be unknowingly subjecting themselves to harmful substances. One of the most significant concerns is that young users might not fully comprehend what they are vaping. Often, flavored e-liquids and vape pods can mask the fact that they may contain nicotine, a highly addictive substance. Vapes can also contain harmful chemicals, heavy metals and volatile compounds. Even more alarming is the risk of unknowingly inhaling dangerous compounds like THC, the psychoactive component of marijuana, CBD, or synthetic cannabinoids, all of which can have severe adverse effects on developing brains. It is crucial to raise awareness and provide guidance to safeguard the health and well-being of our young population.

How Are They Hiding It?

Identifying vaping involves recognizing the use of electronic devices that produce aerosols from heated liquids, often containing nicotine or other substances. Common signs include exhaling dense clouds, discreetly holding a small device, and a sweet or fruity scent. Vigilance is essential, especially among teenagers, to promote informed health choices.

Talk About E-Cigs
Where To Find Them

Pulse Check

Time and place is one of the most pivotal parts of great dialogue. By asking some simple open-ended questions, you can get a better sense of if your child is in a good state of mind to have a conversation with you. Here are some examples of ways to check the pulse of your child’s openness to conversation:

Note: If your child does not respond in a positive manner, it’s okay. Try asking a pulse check question another day.

Conversation Tips By Age

Middle School

Initiating conversations about the risks associated with vaping among middle schoolers is extremely important. This particular phase of their lives is characterized not only by physical changes but also by exposure to various influences and new experiences, requiring a proactive approach to address this topic. The goal is to engage in these discussions before any indications of vaping or its detrimental effects become a significant concern. Remember, these conversations should be ongoing and tailored to suit the needs and maturity level of your middle schooler. Encourage them to ask questions and provide a secure and supportive environment for open dialogue. If you have immediate concerns or if your child expresses involvement in vaping or addiction, it is crucial to seek professional help promptly. Here are some talking points to consider when discussing the risks of vaping: 

  • Have you heard of vaping before? What do you know about it?
  • What are some reasons why you think kids might try vaping? 
  • Have you ever witnessed someone vaping at your school or around you and your friends? How did it make you feel?
  • Do you think there is a difference between vaping and smoking cigarettes? Why or why not?
  • Have you ever been curious to try vaping? And what role do you think peer pressure could make in wanting to try vaping?
  • What do you think are some effective ways to support and encourage your friends or classmates to make healthy choices and avoid vaping?
  • If you had the opportunity to speak with someone who vapes, what questions would you ask them?

High School

During high school, it’s important to prioritize discussions about the dangers of vaping. Engaging in ongoing conversations about vaping prevention becomes essential, as teenagers often face peer pressure and are constantly exposed to vaping. As parents, it is vital to approach these conversations with a non-judgmental attitude, establishing a safe and open space for dialogue. By offering understanding and providing accurate information, we can effectively support our teenagers and help them navigate the challenges they may encounter. If you have immediate concerns or if your child expresses involvement in vaping or addiction, it is crucial to seek professional help promptly. Here are some talking points to consider when discussing the risks of vaping: 

  • Are you aware of the potential health risks associated with vaping? What do you think those risks might be?
  • What role do you think peer pressure plays in the decision to try vaping?
  • What substances do you think are commonly used in vaping devices?
  • Have you ever had the urge to try vaping?
  • What role do you feel social media plays in regards to vaping? 
  • Have you noticed any changes in your friends’ or classmates’ behaviors or moods that worry you when they vape? Why do you think this happens? 
  • Have you ever been in a situation where someone was pushing you to try vaping? How did you feel?
  • Do you think schools should implement stricter policies or consequences for students caught vaping? Why or why not?
  • Do you think there is a difference between vaping and smoking cigarettes? Why or why not?
  • Are there any misconceptions or myths about vaping that you’ve come across? How do you think we can address those misconceptions?
  • What role do you think parents and schools should play in educating young people about vaping?
  • What are some alternatives or healthier activities that you think could replace the urge to vape?
  • Can you explain the appeal of vaping to me? What do you think makes it popular among young people?

Young Adult

As your child enters young adulthood, they encounter various challenges and pressures, including those related to vaping. Create a supportive environment where your child feels comfortable discussing their thoughts and experiences. Talk about their curiosity or interest in vaping, the health risks associated with it, the influence of marketing tactics, and any peer pressure they may have encountered. Addressing misconceptions and discussing reasons why young people are drawn to vaping can provide valuable insights to you as a parent. Here are some talking points to consider when discussing the risks of vaping: 

  • What are your thoughts on vaping? Do you know anyone who vapes?
  • Have you seen or heard any advertisements or promotions related to vaping? What are your thoughts on these ads?
  • Do you think there is a difference between vaping and smoking cigarettes? Why or why not?
  • I’ve heard about the rising rates of vaping among young adults. What are your thoughts on this issue?
  • Do you think there is enough awareness about the negative effects of vaping on campus or at work? What more do you think can be done?
  • Have you ever thought about trying vaping or using e-cigarettes? If so, why?
  • Are you familiar with the health risks associated with vaping? What do you know about them?
  • Can you explain the appeal of vaping to me? What do you think makes it popular among young people?
  • Are there any specific brands or types of vaping devices that you or your friends find appealing?
  • How do you handle peer pressure when it comes to making decisions about vaping?

Action
Checklist

Our objective is to empower you with practical measures to start the conversation regarding the hazards of vaping. This checklist offers a systematic approach to tackling these pressing concerns. By being well-prepared, you can actively engage with your children, foster trust, and encourage responsible decision-making, ultimately diminishing the likelihood of vaping and its potential repercussions.

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Action
Checklist

Our objective is to empower you with practical measures to start the conversation regarding the hazards of vaping. This checklist offers a systematic approach to tackling these pressing concerns. By being well-prepared, you can actively engage with your children, foster trust, and encourage responsible decision-making, ultimately diminishing the likelihood of vaping and its potential repercussions.

Action
Checklist

Our objective is to empower you with practical measures to start the conversation regarding the hazards of vaping. This checklist offers a systematic approach to tackling these pressing concerns. By being well-prepared, you can actively engage with your children, foster trust, and encourage responsible decision-making, ultimately diminishing the likelihood of vaping and its potential repercussions.

Need More Help?

All children are different, and as parents, we understand you are doing your best. It is okay if you don’t know how to deal with a situation and if through your conversation you find your child needs help, here are some local resources. Use the regional map to find assistance in your area, or please head to our contact page. If you are in an immediate crisis call or text 988.

Are You Ready To Talk To Your Child? Test Your Knowledge Here

Find Local Help

Resource Map

uintacountyprevention.com

Prevention Specialist: Kendra Safford

kendra.safford1@wyo.gov

Prevention Specialist: Andrew Tarrell
 

facebook.com/lccpartnership

Prevention Specialist: Brittany Wardle and Angela Vaughn

brittany.wardle@crmcwy.org

angela.vauhn@crmcwy.org

facebook.com/LincolnPreventingATODSAbuse

Prevention Specialist: Brittany Ritter

britter@lcwy.org

Anne Petroski

anne.petroski1@wyo.gov

The Comprehensive Community Coalition 

facebook.com/GoshenCountyPrevention

Prevention Specialist: Lynette Saucedo

lynettesaucedo@yahoo.com

subletterpreventioncoalition.org

Prevention Specialist: Trisha Scott

rebecca.crowe@wyo.gov

fremontcountyprevention.com

Prevention Specialist: Tauna Groomsmith

tauna.groomsmith@wyo.gov

Community Prevention Coalition of Teton County

https://www.facebook.com/CPCTetonCounty

Prevention Specialist: Beverly Shore

beverly.shore@wyo.gov

hotspringscountyprevention.org

Prevention Specialist: Jennifer Cheney

jcheney@hotsprings1.org

Campbell County Prevention Council:

campbellcountyprevention.org

Campbell County Suicide Prevention Coalition:

Prevention Specialist: 

Ashley.McRae@campbellcountywy.gov

21 Alliance Prevention Coalition

facebook.com/WestonCountyPrevention

Prevention Specialist: Kristi Lipp

klipp0204@gmail.com

Healthy Park County

healthyparkcounty.org

Prevention Specialist: Wendy Morris

wendy@healthyparkcounty.org

Big Horn County Prevention Alliance

facebook.com/BHCPrevention

Prevention Specialist: Travis Sylvester

travis@bhcprevention.com

Alliance for Substance Abuse Prevention of Sheridan County

facebook.com/ASAPSheridanCounty

Sheridan County Suicide Prevention Coalition

Prevention Specialist: Ann Perkins

aperkins@sheridancounty.com