Most devices need chargers or batteries, so keep an eye out for any cords or chargers that you don’t recognize. New USB adapters or cigarette adapters are clues your teen is vaping in their car. [2] X Research source Tubes of vape juice, tiny cartridges, or “pods” are also evidence of vape use. Strange extracts stored in tiny containers. Some may look like small tubs of lip balm filled with a yellow substance. All of these could be marijuana concentrates, known as “honey oil” or “butter. “[3] X Research source Some vape products are even sneakier—they can be hidden in hoodies or even disguised as watches or pens. [4] X Research source
Nicotine vapes often have a sweet minty, fruity, or candy-like smell that is strong at first but fades over time. Marijuana vapes have a more acrid, sour, or burnt smell that lingers a bit longer. [6] X Research source
If you see a greasy film on the windshield of your teen’s car, this could be residue from vape clouds. [8] X Research source Your teen might turn on a hot shower and vape in the bathroom to cover up their tracks or put a damp towel under their door. See if they suddenly have new daily routines. [9] X Trustworthy Source Recovery. org Resource run by the American Addiction Centers organization providing people with educational resources about substance abuse Go to source If your teen’s car seems ultra clean and heavily scented, it may be a sign they’re vaping marijuana, as the concentrates carry a stronger smell. [10] X Research source
References to “taking a rip,” “refilling pods” or “buying cartridges” also point to vape use. [12] X Research source A teen who vapes marijuana might also say they need some “herb. " They may also say they’re “blasted” or “lit. " “Dank” could also be an adjective they regularly use. [13] X Research source
Increased thirst since vaping significantly dehydrates people Nosebleeds due to a dramatic loss of moisture “Vaper’s tongue,” the loss of taste because of a dry mouth Coughing or shortness of breath due to irritation in the throat and lungs[15] X Research source Skin damage, like irritation and worsened acne Bloodshot eyes since marijuana widens blood vessels in eyes[16] X Research source Dizziness because vaping lowers blood pressure[17] X Research source Sleep disorders like insomnia since nicotine is a stimulant Emotional problems because nicotine alters brain chemistry Hyperactivity as nicotine can cause mood swings and anxiety Poor coordination because marijuana alters critical functioning[18] X Research source Depression, or even psychosis, as marijuana impacts developing brains[19] X Research source
Increased blood pressure A rapid heart rate Violent coughing fits Sudden weight loss Nausea and vomiting Diarrhea Lung injury A heart attack
Poor impulse control Decreased attention Mood disorders Addiction
Give your kid some notice in advance so they don’t feel nervous or “ambushed. " For example, say, “Let’s talk about risky behavior and drug use tomorrow night. You’re not in trouble—I just want to make sure we’re on the same page. " Instead of framing the conversation as a lecture, let your child know that you’re coming from a place of concern—you just want them to stay safe and healthy.
If your teen is very concerned about their grades and their academic success, then gather evidence about how their developing brain is impacted: “I know that you want to get into an Ivy League school, and I’m concerned about how vaping can impact your brain and mental health. . . " If your child is excited by sports and athletic performance, focus on how their lungs and heart can get damaged when they vape: “I know that you want to get a scholarship for playing soccer, but that will be difficult if nicotine damages your heart and lungs. . . " It might help to show them an example (like a newspaper story or online story) of someone who experienced negative consequences from vaping.
Check in about their emotional well being. Ask a question like, “Are you stressed lately or are you just trying to have some fun?” Learn what you can about any social pressures. You might say, “Did any of your friends introduce you to this? Does this seem normal for everyone else?”
Make a calm and open-minded remark like, “I’m not trying to control everything you do or scare you. I just want you to be aware of the risks. Have you read anything about the problems with vaping before?” Show them you’re an ally and come up with solutions. You might say, “Given your course load, I completely understand that you’d want to unwind. What if we got a tutor to help with your AP Chemistry assignments?” Use the conversation as an opportunity to tell your kids about what a slippery slope vaping can be, and how our minds are predisposed to becoming addicted to things.
If you discover that your teen vapes, let them know that you need to monitor them. For example, say, “I want to know who you’re doing your homework with. Please give me their contact information and be home by 4 P. M. " Explain penalties for any future drug use. You might tell them, “I’ll take away all your consoles and I won’t give you keys to the car if I find out you’re vaping again. " Let your teen know it’s important to stay transparent so you can help. Make a comment like, “If you drink or vape at a party, please just call me. I’ll give you a ride and won’t lecture you. "
Ask if your teen can be referred to a counselor who can guide them through the process of quitting vaping and understanding what triggers them to pick up addictive habits. Discuss whether your teen needs any medical intervention, such as nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), to effectively overcome a dependence on vaping.
