The Dangers of E-Cigarette Addiction Among Teenagers: Expert Advice

On August 6th, according to AIF.RU, a psychologist in Russia stated in an interview that their research shows that even occasional use of disposable e-cigarettes can significantly impair memory, attention, and cognitive function. If adolescents frequently use e-cigarettes, these changes can be fatal and irreversible. Therefore, she advised parents of these teenagers to help their children break free from this harmful dependency.

Vera Nikishina, a professor and psychology PhD at the Russian State Medical University's Institute of Clinical Psychology and Social Work, stated in an interview with aif.ru that,...

After several years of widespread use and easy access at all points of sale, e-cigarettes have become the most popular addictive behavior among adolescents.

We can say with certainty that e-cigarettes, traditional cigarettes, other e-cigarettes, or chemicals such as energy drinks are all factors that can lead to addictive behaviors.

Psychologists further explain:

The mechanisms underlying physical dependence may vary, but those underlying psychological dependence are nearly universal. Due to imitative behavior, this type of dependence is widely spread. Hence, we begin to question: What are the effects of e-cigarettes on mental and physical health?

Our research shows that even with disposable use, the functionality of memory, attention, and thinking will significantly decline. If adolescents frequently use e-cigarettes, these changes will be fatal and irreversible.

How should parents handle it? Parents are deeply concerned about how to help their children break free from this harmful dependency. Psychologists suggest that first, the length of time e-cigarettes are used should be assessed, a conversation with the child should take place without blame or anger. Secondly, the frequency of use needs to be determined.

Psychologist Nikki Hina pointed out that the ingredients in e-cigarettes are not clear, and claims of safety and harmlessness are just slogans.

During our time at the school, we observed that teenagers were finding opportunities to use e-cigarettes approximately every 45 minutes, demonstrating signs of addiction. Furthermore, when unable to use them, the children would become anxious, irritable, and experience changes in their physical condition.

After ruling out potential issues, the final recommendation is to seek the help of a neuropsychologist to assess the child's neurocognitive state. Parents should avoid negative reactions and comments throughout the process to prevent the child from reverting to bad habits. Utilizing visual methods such as chest X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs can visually show changes in the lungs and brain to help the child realize the seriousness of the problem. If these methods prove ineffective, it is advised for parents to seek help from professionals. In some cases, professional intervention is unavoidable.