Common names for e-cigarettes include:

• E-Cigs
• Vapes
• Mods
• Tanks
• Vape pens

Vaping is not harmless and the long term effects are still unknown. Vape juice often contains nicotine which is a highly addictive substance. Youth under 25 are at higher risk for nicotine addiction than adults because their brains are still developing. The amount of nicotine in a standard vape cartridge is roughly equal to the amount of 20 cigarettes. It can affect memory, concentration, impulse control as well as cognitive behavioural problems.

Aerosol produced from a vape device can contain toxic chemicals (formaldehyde, acetaldehyde) and heavy metals (aluminum, nickel). Some short term effects include coughing, wheezing and a worsening of asthma symptoms. Inhalation of harmful chemicals can cause irreversible lung injury and disease.

Sharing anything by mouth, including vape devices, can increase the risk of contracting viruses or infections such as herpes, COVID-19, or influenza.

Learn about the signs of vaping, how to talk to your child about vaping and how can you support your child to quit.

What are some of the Signs of Vaping?

Here are some signs that could indicate that a youth may be vaping:

New health issues

• coughing, wheezing, mouth sores, increased thirst

Changes in behaviour

• increased mood swings, irritability, or impulsivity
• negative changes in academic or athletic performance
• changes in sleeping patterns
• suspicious behaviour (hiding things)

Equipment & Spending

• spending more money than usual or making unexplained purchases
• cartridges, small vials or eye dropper bottles, unfamiliar chargers, coils, or batteries
• flash drives or school supplies you don’t recognize
• sweet, fruity smells

If you notice any of these signs, say something, start the conversation.

How do I Talk to my Child about Vaping?

Get the facts. Learn about vaping and stay up to date.

Communicate

• Use teachable moments - take advantage of situations where you can talk about vaping
• Start a conversation, here are some examples:
  • Have you tried it? Why?
  • Do your friends vape?
  • What do you think about vaping?
  • Do you think vaping is safe?
• Keep the conversation going and keep lines of communication open
• Be open, honest, and non-judgemental
• If you don’t know the answer to a question, look it up together

Recognize the Influence

• Social media - the promotion of vaping through social media and influencers continues to be an effective tactic used by the vaping & tobacco industry to increase sales and target youth

Empower your child to say "No"

• Help them to gain skills and have a plan to refuse

How Can I Support my Child to Quit?

• Ensure a safe, supportive, non-judgemental environment at home
• Encourage your teen to approach a trusted adult if they have questions or need help
• Have them write down why they want to quit and pick a day to stop vaping
• Understand nicotine withdrawal and cravings
• If you do smoke or vape, reflect on your own usage - this is an opportunity to discuss with your child possible challenges with addiction and quitting.
• Access online resources and supports such as quit apps to help set goals and make a plan
• Ask your health care provider to talk to your child about the risks of vaping
• Recognize that quitting can be difficult and offer support when they are ready

• Health Canada - Smoking, Tobacco & Vaping
• Drug Free Kids Canada - Vaping
• Kids Health - E-Cigarettes
• Canadian Paediatric Society - Pre-teens & Teens - Vaping
• Centre for Addiction and Mental Health - Vaping Youth Resources