Let’s clear the air…
Whether it’s the old-school ciggies or the new-age vapes, smoking in any form is harmful to your health — and your performance on the field.
There’s a lot of confusion out there about vaping — but here’s what’s clear: vaping is not risk-free.
The good news? More and more young people are choosing to steer clear of it.
According to the 2022–2023 Australian Secondary Schools Alcohol and Drug Survey, 30% of 12–17 year olds have tried a vape. That means most young people — 7 out of 10 — have not.
So, what’s in a vape?
Most vapes contain nicotine — the same addictive substance found in cigarettes. In fact, 60% of vapes sold through non-pharmacy retailers (illegally sold) that say they’re “nicotine-free” do contain nicotine. Plus, there are a bunch of other chemicals that can seriously affect your lungs, heart, and brain.
The truth:
- Vaping is addictive — just like smoking.
- Nicotine increases symptoms of depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts and stress.
- A frequent vape user is 2.4 times more likely to be diagnosed with depression than a non-vape user.
- It reduces your ability to breathe properly, making it harder to perform in sport.
We still don’t know all the long-term health effects.
What if a friend offers you their vape?
What could it mean?
They could be struggling with their mental health. Some people start vaping because they believe it will help with stress, and anything that makes you breathe deeply and pause may feel good in the moment, but vaping makes all symptoms of poor mental health worse in the long run.
So, what should you do?
- Ask them if they want to talk about it,
- Advise them of information and help available,
Assist them to get help if they need it.
If you would like to know more about tobacco and vaping or to access resources to support a young person with their mental health or reducing tobacco related harm, please have a look at these links:
Healthy Communities – Reducing Tobacco (and E-cigarette) Related Harm | Barwon Health