New figures released by the Schools Health Research Network (SHRN) and Public Health Wales reveal that more than a quarter (25.7%) of students in Years 7 to 11 in Wales have tried vapes, with 7% reporting regular use. The survey, conducted every two years, shows that girls are more likely to vape than boys, and Year 11 students have the highest rates of regular usage at 15.9%.
Despite the sale of vapes being banned to those under 18, the number of children who vape continues to rise. As a result, parents need to be aware of the signs that their child might be vaping.
Public Health Wales Offers Guidance for Parents
Mary-Ann McKibben, a consultant in Public Health for Public Health Wales, acknowledges that the increase in vaping among young people across the UK is a concern for parents and carers. To help address this issue, Public Health Wales has released a guide outlining six potential signs that a child might be vaping:
- Sweet scents: Many vapes come in flavors like vanilla or bubble gum, so be vigilant of these scents.
- Mood changes: If your child appears more moody, jittery, or irritable than usual, it could indicate a nicotine addiction.
- Sleep disturbances and headaches: Nicotine addiction can interfere with sleep and trigger headaches.
- Increased thirst: Vaping can cause dryness in the mouth, leading to constant thirst.
- Frequent coughing: Vaping can also lead to an increased coughing.
- Unusual devices: Familiarize yourself with what vapes look like, as some resemble pens or flash drives, making them easy to conceal.
Open Communication Is Key
While these signs can help parents identify potential vaping habits, the guide emphasizes that the most simple and effective way to find out if a child has been vaping is to have an open conversation with them.
"The key thing is to have open conversations with your loved ones. Stay calm, don't panic - and crucially try to stay positive," advises McKibben. "Choose a good time for a proper discussion. For example, if you've just found vapes in their room, wait until you've calmed down before talking to them."
By fostering open communication and being aware of the potential signs of vaping, parents can help their children navigate the challenges of growing up in a world where vaping is becoming increasingly prevalent.
