Vaping is becoming a real problem among younger people. Where once we were worried about them smoking, drinking alcohol or even taking drugs, it’s the vape that is proving difficult to keep many teenagers away from.
It’s a concern for many reasons, from the fact that they are addictive and they do pose health risks, to the fact that they can act as a gateway to other substances, such as drugs, in which they could find themselves in a position of being hooked, failing at school, falling ill, and even needing a drug detox to get their lives back on track. It’s a spiralling effect that sounds severe, but it is happening.
So, what should you do exactly if you find out your child has been vaping?
Stay Calm and Collected
The first step is to not completely fly off the handle, as much as you would like to. It can be easy to react angrily or be disappointed, and the chances are you will be feeling that way, but you need to remain calm. If you don’t this could just cause your child to shut down and you’ll never get to the bottom of it.
Approach the conversation in a calm and considered manner and initiate a conversation about their actions.
Initiate a Conversation
An open and honest conversation with your child about the severity of vaping is a must. You need to choose a setting that’s both comfortable and private for them and you can talk without interruptions. It’s not a lecture, but rather a two way conversation in which you can express your concerns in a non-confrontational manner, but also allow them to share their thoughts, feelings and reasoning as to why they have been vaping.
Listen Actively
It’s important to listen to your child open up about this and play an active listening role in the conversation. There may be underlying feelings or pressures you aren’t aware of and it could be understandable as to why they’ve turned to vaping. Of course, it’s something you need to move them away from, but they’re reasoning may not be quite as rebellious as you thought and they actually need and want help.
By listening you can get valuable insight into their mindset, which can guide how you move forward with the situation.
Educate Them on the Risks
A key part of the conversation needs to be educating them on the health risks. Vaping can cause multiple health problems, many of which they may not be aware of as they aren’t putting a cigarette in their mouth. So speak about the long and short term health problems of it, ensuring it’s in an age-appropriate way and they understand.
Discuss Peer Pressure and Influence
Understanding the social context of your child’s vaping is essential. Discuss the role of peer pressure and the influence of social media in their decision to vape. Encourage your child to reflect on their motivations and the impact of their choices on their health. Emphasise that it's okay to say no to substances, regardless of what others might think. Sharing stories of others who have successfully resisted peer pressure can also empower your child to make healthier choices.
Set Boundaries and Expectations
Once you’ve established open communication, it’s important to set clear boundaries and expectations regarding vaping. Discuss your family’s values around smoking and vaping and outline the consequences of continued vaping. Make it clear that you are concerned for their health and well-being, and that your intention is to guide them towards making better choices.
Offer Support and Alternatives
If your child is struggling with nicotine addiction, it’s crucial to offer support and explore alternatives. Suggest healthier activities or hobbies that can distract them from the urge to vape, such as sports, art, or music. Encourage them to engage in social circles that promote a healthy lifestyle. Additionally, consider seeking professional help, such as counselling or support groups, if your child finds it difficult to quit.
Monitor Their Progress
After your initial conversation, keep the lines of communication open and check in with your child regularly. Ask about their experiences and feelings regarding vaping, and provide ongoing support as they work to make healthier choices. Monitoring their progress shows your commitment to their well-being and reinforces the importance of making informed decisions.
Lead by Example
As a parent, your behaviour plays a significant role in shaping your child’s choices. If you’re a smoker or vaper yourself, consider seeking help to quit. Demonstrating a commitment to a healthy lifestyle can have a profound influence on your child’s choices. Your actions speak louder than words, and leading by example can help instil positive habits in your child.
