Did you know that approximately 1.44 million U.S. middle and high school students currently vape, representing about 5.2% of youth? While statistics show that overall smoking consumption has declined, we fail to ask: In what way? The truth, unfortunately, reveals a concerning vaping epidemic.

As the only organization in the state dedicated to respiratory health, Breathe New Hampshire has provided prevention programs for youth vaping since 2018.

Our prevention program, Vaping Unveiled educates upper elementary, middle school, and high school students through teacher workshops, school health classes, and large assemblies. In this time, we have had the pleasure of educating thousands of students across New Hampshire school systems and diversion programs on the dangers of vaping and other tobacco products.

The Presence of Vaping in Middle School

According to the FDA’s Annual National Youth Tobacco Survey (NYTS), 4.1% of middle school students (480,000) reported current use of tobacco products.

Our Program Coordinator, Emma Schuler, has seen firsthand how vaping culture has entrenched the fourth through eighth grade levels.

"I’ve consistently found that vaping is something students are very familiar with, even when they have never personally used a vape," Emma shares. “Students often demonstrate a surprising awareness of vape devices, flavors, and brand names seen on social media. Students do not openly report using vape products, but there are typically a few students in the room that know peers who use vapes,” she adds.

Vape Flavors and Appearance

Since the tobacco market is mostly unregulated, companies have been able to market products using flavors, cute product designs, and even games that appeal to youth. The FDA reports that “More than eight out of ten (89.4%) current e-cigarette users used flavored e-cigarettes, with fruit flavors being the most popular, followed by candy, desserts, or other sweets; mint; and menthol, and over half (53.4%) of students currently using e-cigarettes reported using flavors with “ice” or “iced” in the name.”

Vapes have drastically changed their design since their emergence, making them more handheld and appearing as regular day-to-day school or office supplies. This not only makes it more difficult for parents to spot among their children’s rooms or backpacks, but also normalizes the existence of vapes in our everyday lives.

They come in bright colors, have brand imaging that aligns with beauty products, and even have digital animations that appear when inhaling from the device. Healthline’s article, 6 Vaping Products Disguised as Everyday Items, even features clothing that disguises vape products.

Empowerment Starts At Home

The best way to support your middle schooler is by educating them at home. According to the CDC’s guide, "Protecting Youth From the Harms of Vaping," parents should firstly set a good example by not smoking or vaping at home. Becoming a tobacco-free household not only eliminates secondhand and third-hand smoking exposure, it sets the tone that smoking and vaping is unhealthy, and is not a social culture their family identifies with.

Becoming a tobacco-free household also eliminates health concerns your child may be harboring. “One of the most striking observations is how often students share that family members vape and express genuine concern about the impact vaping may have on their loved one's health,” Emma explains.

Talk to your child about the harmful effects of tobacco consumption. Even if your child is unaware of what a vape is, it’s likely that they refer to it by its brand name. The most common brands reported by the FDA are Geek Bar (64.1%), Elf Bar (21.5%), Lost Mary (19.8%), Raz (19.5%), and Vuse (15.9%).

In “How to talk to your child about nicotine” by The Truth Initiative, they recommend parents stay curious when approaching their child or teen about smoking and vaping, asking them questions calmly. When they divulge information, try not to react out of anger, and respond with empathy instead.
Lastly, if applicable, share quitting resources with them. If you need help on how to help your child with quitting, visit My Life My Quit.

How to Navigate Pressure at School

Now that you’ve educated your child on the dangers of smoking and vaping, it’s helpful to prepare them with a cheat sheet they can use at the moment. Here are some tips to share with your middle schooler to help them navigate responses at school:

Student Refusal Skills:

Resort to a White Lie if Necessary

Express that your parents and/or coaches are strict, putting the blame on them for your decision not to indulge. Your decision to say no doesn’t need to be justified to anybody; it’s okay to stretch the truth in this instance in order to overcome pressure.

Deflect topic and divert conversation
Change the subject or offer another excuse to redirect the conversation. Try, “No thanks, I’m going to grab lunch soon,” or “I’m trying to save money at the moment.”

Just say no
If you feel comfortable, you can provide a firm “no” without being perceived as defensive. Try, “I’m good, thanks,” or “I’m all set, but thanks for the offer!”

Finding healthier outlets

Identify why peers are resorting to vaping. What urge are they curbing? Are they using their vapes when they're anxious or upset? Become aware of the patterns your peers exhibit when resorting to vapes.

Choose healthy coping mechanisms
Replace vaping with healthier stress-relievers like listening to music, chewing gum, exercising, or a meditative hobby.

Ask for help
Don’t be afraid to lean on school counselors and social workers for support. Trained professionals provide a non-judgmental space where you can discuss social pressures and develop management strategies.

Conclusion

Remember that while parents, school administration, and local authorities can do what they can to mitigate the effects of smoking and vaping, our power really lies in advocacy. Doing what we can to effect systemic change at the state and even national level will ultimately change the landscape of tobacco culture for the better.

If you or someone you know is interested in a Vaping Unveiled presentation, fill out our request form.

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