Why is so hard for teens to quit?

For many teens, vaping isn’t just about nicotine it’s also a coping mechanism. One teen admitted on social media, “It soothes my anxiety, and I’ve told my mom. It isn’t even the nicotine…more like a dummy you’d give to a baby to comfort it.”

This emotional attachment, combined with the addictive nature of nicotine, makes quitting incredibly challenging.

What can you do to help?

Here are some practical steps you can take to support your child in quitting vaping:

1. Start the conversation

Approach the subject calmly and openly. Ask them about their vaping habit without judgment. Try questions like, “What made you start vaping?” or “How does vaping make you feel?”

Let them know you’re coming from a place of concern, not punishment.

2. Educate them on the risks

Share real stories and research, like the findings from UCT’s study. Many teens don’t fully understand the long-term damage vaping can cause. Break it down in simple terms—talk about how it could affect their health, sports performance, or even their skin (yes, vaping can damage collagen!).

3. Help them cut back gradually

Going cold turkey can be hard, especially for teens who are already addicted. Suggest gradually lowering nicotine levels or using nicotine-free vapes as a step toward quitting entirely.

4. Get professional help

Consider reaching out to a doctor or counsellor who specialises in addiction. They can recommend nicotine replacement therapies (like patches or gum) or behavioural strategies to help your child quit.

5. Be patient and supportive

Quitting is a journey, and there will likely be setbacks. Celebrate small victories along the way, and remind your child that you’re in their corner no matter what.

It’s important to remember that you’re not alone in this.

One mom shared in a private group, “I feel like I’ve failed as a parent because I can’t get my son to stop.”

But the reality is, that many parents are in the same boat, navigating this new and challenging terrain.

Vaping might seem like a harmless trend but, for South African teens, it’s a ticking time bomb. The highly addictive nature of nicotine and its impact on the developing brain make this an issue we can’t afford to ignore.

hearthealth

High school vaping crisis: what parents can do to help their teens