them to things they recognize .
“ The chemical acetone is also found in nail polish , and arsenic is used in rat poison ,” Folkenroth says . “ Ammonia is a chemical found in toilet bowl cleaner , and carbon monoxide is found in carts . It ’ s really helping to make those connections for the youth . We ask the child if they think breathing these chemicals into their lungs would hurt them or make it harder for them to breathe and play .”
Folkenroth also says making the connection between e-cigarette use and conditions like depression or anxiety clear can help children steer away from use , as the product is proven to cause symptoms of negative mental health conditions .
“ Children respond really well to understanding that vaping can lead to worsening anxiety symptoms and amplify feelings of depression — that , in fact , the chemicals in vaping products as well as the nicotine are incredibly harmful to the adolescent brain as it ’ s still developing all the way up until age 25 ,” she says .
It is also crucial for local communities and schools to get involved in helping stop e-cigarette use . Youth programs that promote a tobacco-free lifestyle — such as Catch My
Breath , Not on Tobacco and INDEPTH — are essential for early education and prevention , and it is important for parents to offer their children smoke-free homes and cars so as not to expose them to second-hand smoke or encourage them to use tobacco themselves .
Anderson encourages parents whose children have already begun using e-cigarettes to support them through the quitting process .
“ If your child has started vaping but wants to quit , you can be their accountability partner . Work together to create a specific plan and set realistic goals ,” she says . “ Help them identify the situations and triggers that will
make quitting difficult so they ’ re
Photo by the American Lung Assocation . prepared to handle them . It ’ s essential for your child to take the lead in this process with you providing support rather than directing the effort .”
In West Virginia , it is currently illegal to sell tobacco products to anyone under the age of 18 , and there is a 0.075 per milliliter tax of e-cigarette liquid as well . However , with the state having such a high-ranking status in tobacco use , it is essential that West Virginia continue efforts to stop these harmful products through education , support and legislative measures . •
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