Youth Prevention
Helping Young People Stay Nicotine-Free
Young people today are exposed to more nicotine products than ever before. From flavored e-cigarettes and disposable vapes to nicotine pouches and other emerging products, nicotine use can begin before young people fully understand the risks.
Prevention starts with education, supportive relationships, and creating environments where young people can make healthy choices. Parents, caregivers, educators, healthcare professionals, and communities all play an important role in preventing nicotine addiction.
Why Youth Tobacco and Nicotine Prevention Matters
Most adults who use tobacco products began using them when they were young.
Adolescence is an important time for prevention because the brain continues developing into the mid-20s. Exposure to nicotine during this period can increase the risk of addiction and make it harder to stop using nicotine and other addictive substances later in life.
Preventing youth nicotine use helps protect:
- Lung health
- Brain development
- Academic success
- Mental well-being
- Long-term health
Creating tobacco- and nicotine-free communities gives young people the support they need to make healthy choices.
Why Do Young People Try Nicotine Products?
There is no single reason why a young person may try vaping or another nicotine product. Common influences include:
Peer Influence
Friends, classmates, and social groups can influence decisions about trying nicotine products.
Flavors and Product Design
Many nicotine products are available in appealing flavors and designs that may make them seem less harmful or more approachable.
Social Media and Marketing
Young people may see nicotine products portrayed online in ways that make them appear trendy, normal, or harmless.
Stress and Emotions
Some youth may turn to nicotine because they believe it helps manage stress, anxiety, or difficult emotions.
Curiosity and Experimentation
Some young people try nicotine because they are curious or want to understand what others are using.
Understanding these influences helps adults create stronger prevention efforts.
Building Protective Factors
Prevention is not only about telling young people what not to do. It is also about helping them develop the skills, confidence, and support they need to make healthy decisions.
Protective factors include:
- Strong connections with trusted adults
- Open communication at home and in the community
- Healthy ways to manage stress
- Positive friendships and activities
- Opportunities for youth leadership and involvement
- Safe, supportive environments
Young people who feel connected and supported are better equipped to resist pressure and make informed choices.
Talking With Young People About Nicotine
Conversations about tobacco and nicotine are most effective when they happen early and continue over time.
Adults can help by:
- Asking questions and listening
- Providing accurate information
- Avoiding judgment or shame
- Encouraging critical thinking about advertising and social influences
- Creating opportunities for honest conversations
Young people are more likely to seek help when they know they will be supported.
The Role of Schools and Communities
Preventing youth nicotine use requires a community-wide approach.
Schools, healthcare professionals, families, and community organizations can work together by:
- Providing evidence-based education
- Creating tobacco- and nicotine-free environments
- Connecting youth with supportive resources
- Training adults who work with young people
- Promoting healthy coping strategies
- Supporting policies that reduce youth access to nicotine products
A consistent message from trusted adults helps reinforce healthy choices.
Supporting Youth Mental Health
Some young people may view nicotine as a way to manage stress, anxiety, or emotions. While nicotine may feel like it provides temporary relief, it can contribute to dependence and make managing stress and anxiety more difficult over time.
Prevention efforts should include helping youth develop healthy coping skills, such as:
- Physical activity
- Creative activities
- Time outdoors
- Relaxation techniques
- Talking with trusted adults
- Accessing mental health support when needed
Supporting overall well-being is an important part of preventing nicotine use.
Addressing Changing Nicotine Products
Nicotine products continue to evolve. Youth may encounter:
- Disposable and reusable vapes
- Nicotine pouches
- Flavored nicotine products
- Products that resemble everyday items
- Devices used for both nicotine and THC/cannabis
Because products and trends change quickly, ongoing education helps families, schools, and communities stay informed.
Breathe New Hampshire’s Youth Prevention Efforts
Breathe New Hampshire works with schools, youth groups, healthcare professionals, coalitions, and community organizations throughout the state to educate young people about tobacco and nicotine risks.
Our prevention programs help youth:
- Understand the health effects of nicotine
- Recognize marketing strategies
- Build refusal and decision-making skills
- Learn the facts about vaping and other nicotine products
- Connect with trusted adults and resources
Through education and collaboration, we work to create healthier, nicotine-free communities across New Hampshire.
Learn more about Breathe New Hampshire’s youth
prevention program - VAPING UNVEILED.
