What Can I Do?
In the past 50 years, the number of teens using other tobacco products, like cigarettes and dip tobacco, was decreasing. But now that JUUL and other vape products are on the scene, more and more middle and high school students are starting to try it, and becoming addicted to nicotine.
In fact, 1 out of 4 high school students reports vaping, according to a national survey.
Peer pressure and stress are big reasons why high school students say they choose to vape. While it may sometimes seem like EVERYONE is doing it, remember that 3 out of 4 high schoolers choose to stay tobacco-free and do NOT vape.
How to say "No"
One of the best ways to stay on track and tobacco/vape-free is to have a plan for what you would do if someone offered you the chance to try. Here are some ways you can say "no."
- Just Say No 🛑
Pretty simple.
"No"
"No thank you"
"No thanks, I don't vape."
2. Give a reason, or an excuse 🤷♀️
"If my parent finds out, they'll take my phone for a month!"
"I watched my family member struggle to quit smoking/tobacco and saw how hard it was. I don't want to ever have to deal with that myself, so I don't vape."
"I'm on the volleyball team and our coach is really serious about us not vaping. I don't want to risk it."
3. Broken Record 🎵
If someone is persuasive and keeps asking, just keep repeating your answer...
"No, I don't vape."
"No, I told you I don't vape."
"No, I told you I don't vape."
4. Suggest an Alternative 🍟 🏐 🎮
"Nah, how about we play video games."
"No thanks, wanna go shoot some hoops?"
"You know what I'd rather do? Go to Chick-fil-A and get a milkshake!"
5. Turn the Tables/use flattery 🧐
"Come on....why do you want to do that? You know it's bad for you."
"You are so good at your sport, you have so much potential! That stuff is going to hurt your lungs and your chances of playing..."
"You're one of my best friends, it really makes me sad that you're endangering your health with that."
6. Walk Away 👋
If you're feeling uncomfortable or pressured, walk away. You have the right to stand up for yourself and your health.
HELP QUITTING
Do you (or someone you know) want help quitting smoking or vaping? While it isn't always easy to quit, you don't have to go at it alone!
THIS IS QUITTING
Text "DITCHJUUL" to 88709
This is a free resource through the Truth Initiative that provides support with cravings and slip ups as well as tips and stories from people who have successfully quit. Anytime. 24/7.
Having support and accountability can make a big difference.
Text2Quit
Text "QUIT" to 7848
The Text2Quit line, is ANOTHER great resource that provides free quit coaching via text!
Talk to your Pediatrician
Ask your doctor
Your doctor may be able to provide you with help and resources that wouldn't otherwise be available to you.
your state quit line
Call 1-800-QUITNOW (1-800-784-8669)
By calling this number, you can enroll in a free telephone program that will provide quit coaching over the phone for anyone 13 years or older. And if you have an adult (18 years or older) in your life who you want to encourage to quit tobacco, they can receive up to 8 weeks of free nicotine replacement therapy (nicotine patches) in addition to the quit coaching on the phone!