Lately, I’ve been talking to more and more teens who are all facing the same problem: they just can’t seem to quit vaping.

For many of them, it started as a way to escape stress; unfortunately, their increasing dependence on nicotine (along with the toll on their physical bodies) has only caused more stress. Many of them tell me that they’ve tried to quit, but weren’t able to make it very long.

That part is not surprising. Nicotine is considered one of the most addictive substances on the planet. According to the University of California San Francisco, “Nicotine has proven to be just as addictive as cocaine and heroin and may even be more addictive.” It’s no wonder that people have a hard time quitting.

The good news is that it really is possible. Just like a soldier going into battle, you need to arm yourself with the right equipment (tools) and make preparations to call in your troops when you need assistance. Here are a few places to start:

1. Enlist your Troops

One of the most important things a person can do with any goal, is find others who will hold them accountable. It’s a lot harder to change your mind about doing something when you know you have people who are going to be asking about your progress.

Choose a few people that you know will support in your goal. Friends are great, but it’s important to have some adults, too. If you don’t feel comfortable talking to your parent or guardian, try talking to your doctor, a therapist, or a school guidance counselor.

2. Make a Battle Plan

Set up a plan for how you are going to reach your goal. This plan should include the things you will do to avoid triggers, actions to take during cravings, and reminds of why you are quitting. You can make your own or create one here:  https://teen.smokefree.gov/quit-plan

3. Get rid of your vapes/juuls/juices/pods

It’s gonna be just that much harder to quit if you still have your stuff. Throw it away!

4. Utilize online resources

One of the greatest things about living in an increasingly  connected world is the availability of resources! If you’re looking to quit or need assistance, you can chat with a professional online or call a helpline. There are also specific apps you can download that will check your progress, provide tips, and help you get back on track when you slip up. Some of them even have games and challenges you can use to distract yourself (we recommend the quitSTART app by Smokefree Teen). Don’t want to download an app? You can also sign up for free text messages from several different organizations. Check out any of the websites below for more information:

https://teen.smokefree.gov/become-smokefree/quitstart-app

https://truthinitiative.org/thisisquitting

https://www.lung.org/quit-smoking

https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/campaign/tips/quit-smoking/guide/index.html

It’s not easy to break a habit, especially one that is so incredibly addicting. You may slip up or make a mistake, but that doesn’t mean you have to stop trying. Quitting is a process, but you will get there eventually. We believe in you!

Gina Boscarino, Prevention Specialist and Teen CHARGE Program Manager