As students return to school, health experts from Tobacco-Free Chautauqua, Cattaraugus and Allegany (TF-CCA) are encouraging families to have conversations not only about the physical dangers of vaping and nicotine use, but also their impact on mental health.

The majority of young people report turning to vaping to manage feelings of stress, anxiety, depression, or other emotional challenges. However, research has shown that nicotine can worsen mental health symptoms over time. While some teens may believe vaping provides relief, nicotine dependence can increase anxiety, affect mood regulation, and make it more difficult to cope with stress.

“Many adolescents start vaping because they believe it helps them manage difficult emotions,” says Jonathan Chaffee, Youth Outreach Coordinator at TF-CCA. “The reality is that nicotine can contribute to a cycle of dependence that may worsen anxiety and other mental health concerns.”

The adolescent brain is particularly vulnerable to nicotine’s effects. During the teenage years, the brain is still developing, especially areas responsible for decision-making, impulse control, and emotional regulation. Nicotine exposure during this critical period can alter brain development and increase the risk of addiction.

Health experts at TF-CCA are also raising concerns about the growing popularity of nicotine pouches among young people. These small packets, placed between the lip and gum, are often marketed in appealing flavors and are easier to conceal than traditional vaping products. While they do not produce visible vapor, nicotine pouches can still deliver high levels of nicotine and expose users to substances that may pose health risks.

Because nicotine pouches are discreet, parents, teachers, and caregivers may be less likely to recognize when a young person is using them.

As the school year begins, experts encourage parents and caregivers to:

• Talk openly with children and teens about vaping, nicotine pouches, and mental health. Help having conversations can be found at TalkItOver.org and Stanford Medicine’s Becoming a Trusted Adult: Foundations for Effective Drug Education.
• Watch for signs of nicotine dependence, including irritability, restlessness, difficulty concentrating and cravings.
• Encourage healthy coping strategies for stress, anxiety, and depression, such as physical activity, social support and counseling.
• Seek professional help if a young person is struggling with mental health concerns or nicotine addiction.

The New York State Quitline is also available to help with quitting vaping. Their latest texting service, DropTheVape, supports young people and young adults in their efforts to overcome nicotine addiction. Registration and more information is available at DropTheVape.org.

The start of a new school year offers an opportunity for families, educators, and communities to work together to support both the physical and mental well-being of young people.

New York State’s pledge to reducing smoking-related death and disease

The New York State Department of Health, Bureau of Tobacco Control funds TF-CCA to increase support for New York State’s tobacco-free norm through youth action and community engagement. Efforts are evidence-based, policy-driven, and cost-effective approaches that decrease youth tobacco use, motivate adult smokers to quit, and eliminate exposure to secondhand smoke.  TF-CCA is a program of Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center.