“I’m so depressed. I don’t know what to do; everyone keeps telling me to just turn to vaping,” thinks Brynn.
For Brynn, and others, vaping will just make her depression worse. At times of stress in our lives, we look for things that help us to try and cope. Whether you’re thinking about trying vaping, cutting back, or quitting altogether — you’re not the only one.
A lot of teens find themselves somewhere in this mindset. Maybe you’re curious. Maybe you’ve already started and aren’t sure how you feel about it anymore. Maybe you’re ready to quit.
Either way, one thing can make a big difference: having the right people in your corner.
Support matters (No matter what stage you’re at)
Decisions about vaping don’t usually happen because of one thing. Maybe it’s peer pressure or social expectations. Maybe it’s stress or family situations. Maybe it’s curiosity. Whatever your reasons, having people you trust around you can help you slow things down and think about what’s right for you, not just what’s happening in the moment.
People you trust can help you talk through the decisions and how to deal with your situation instead of turning to vaping as well as help you stick to your goals (whether that’s not starting or quitting). A trusted friend or support can also assist with peer pressure situations or just make you feel less alone as you work through figuring things out.
How to start the conversation (without it feeling weird)
“The best way to have a conversation about vaping is to just begin talking. Be yourself, be real, and be honest. ‘I’ve been thinking about vaping… and I’m not sure it’s for me.; Or ‘I’m trying to cut back, but don’t know how to get started,’” Jennifer McKenna PS-C, community health coordinator, Northern Light Mayo Community Outreach, shares. “Most of the time, people will respect you for being honest and in turn will be honest and supportive of you turning to them for advice and support.”
When it feels hard
Sometimes, it feels easier to just go along with what everyone else is doing. Finding out why you’re having the feelings you are having can help you to figure out how to deal with the situations that bring vaping thoughts to the foreground.
Having a plan can help:
- Change the subject or step away
- Text someone who knows your goal and can help talk you through it
- Keep your hands busy
- Remember why you made your decision in the first place
Even small choices in the moment can add up.
Your Choice Matters
Whether you decide not to start, or you’re working on quitting; both take confidence and hard work. It’s much easier to give in to a moment of comfort over saying no, but the important part is that it’s ok to say no and it will not make you look weird. You should be making the decision that feels right for you, and if you have the right support system, they will help guide you through these tough times.
Thoughts of vaping may start with stressful situations, but it’s ultimately up to you to figure out the best decision for you and your health. If you are in need of resources to help you in making these decisions, please reach out to your primary care provider or check out: MyLifeMyQuit