Youth Face Significant Barriers in Quitting Vaping, Says CHEO Psychiatrist
Young people who are motivated to quit vaping encounter substantial obstacles in accessing the necessary support systems, according to Dr. Tea Rosic, a psychiatrist at the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO). She emphasizes that the availability of nicotine replacement therapies, such as patches and gum, continues to be a critical barrier for adolescents seeking to overcome their addiction.
Vaping Rates Among Youth Remain Alarmingly High
Recent data indicates that approximately 15 percent of youth in grades 7 through 12 report actively engaging in vaping. However, this figure varies significantly across different age groups and demographics. For instance, only 4 percent of Grade 7 students admit to vaping, but this number escalates dramatically to 27 percent by Grade 12. Dr. Rosic notes that while the overall rate of adolescents taking up vaping has plateaued in Canada, it has not decreased, signaling an ongoing crisis that demands urgent attention.
Among youth with mental health concerns, the vaping rate is even higher, exceeding 20 percent. Many of these young individuals are using vaping products that deliver substantially higher levels of nicotine compared to traditional cigarettes, exacerbating their dependence and making cessation efforts more challenging.
Financial and Systemic Barriers to Nicotine Replacement Therapy
One of the most significant hurdles for youth attempting to quit vaping is the financial inaccessibility of nicotine replacement therapies. These treatments are generally not covered by provincial or private insurance plans, placing them out of reach for many adolescents. Although some programs offer free access to these therapies, options for individuals under 18 are limited and often insufficient to meet the demand.
Dr. Rosic describes this as a major clinical challenge, stating, "I can prescribe nicotine replacement therapy, but it is not covered, and we are constantly searching for programs where we can refer young people for free access." This lack of support has led some patients to consider drastic measures, such as switching to cigarette smoking as a method to quit vaping, highlighting the desperation and inadequate resources available.
The Impact of Vaping on Daily Life and Mental Health
Vaping dependence has profound effects on the daily lives of young people. Dr. Rosic observes that many of her patients are "functionally impaired" due to their addiction, struggling to concentrate in school and experiencing cravings first thing in the morning. They often began vaping in an effort to cope with stress or improve their mood, only to find themselves unable to stop, trapped in a cycle of addiction.
Dr. Rosic advocates for a more concerted effort to address this issue, including enhanced screening and assessment of youth vaping through primary care providers and schools. She stresses the need for comprehensive support systems to help those motivated to quit, as current measures have not sufficiently moved the needle in providing effective treatment and assistance.
In summary, the persistence of high vaping rates among youth, coupled with significant barriers to accessing nicotine replacement therapies, underscores a pressing public health concern. Dr. Rosic's insights call for immediate action to develop more accessible and supportive interventions for adolescents struggling with vaping addiction.
