Key Factors in Vaping Among Teenagers
Jessica Moloney, team leader at Brophy Family and Youth Services, has witnessed a significant shift in the primary addiction among teenagers. While alcohol and cannabis were previously the main concerns, vaping has now taken the top spot.
Moloney attributes this rise to curiosity and peer pressure, with many young people starting to vape because their friends do. Declan Hill, a 15-year-old from Shepparton, is a prime example. He began vaping at age 11 after being pressured by a friend, despite initial reluctance.
Fortunately, Hill was able to quit with the support of his friends, who provided advice and encouragement. Isabella Cartwright, another Year 10 student, also successfully quit vaping recently. She highlights the ease of access to vapes, readily available "anywhere and everywhere."
Moloney emphasizes the importance of peer support in both initiating and quitting vaping. While peer pressure can lead teenagers to try vaping, peer support can be crucial in helping them understand the risks and make informed decisions about quitting.
Sharing accurate information and evidence-based facts among peers can be a powerful tool for promoting positive change. Moloney suggests that schools and communities should consider establishing vaping-specific peer support groups to address this growing concern.
Trish Quibell, CEO of Shepparton's Primary Care Connect, echoes this sentiment, citing the success of peer support programs in adult addiction and mental health services.
By leveraging the power of peer influence and support, communities can effectively tackle the vaping crisis among teenagers and promote healthier choices.