Vaping is one of the popular substance abuse trends in the United States. It is estimated that 1 in 20 Americans vape and that more than 2.5 million middle and high school students reported using vapes (also known as e-cigarettes) within the last 30 days. Initially created to help smokers quit, vaping has drawn in young people and non-smokers to vape products with exotic flavors and the use of THC. While many teens and adults who vape feel it’s “safe,” vaping is as addictive as smoking cigarettes.
This article will answer the question of how long does it take to get addicted to vaping. We will also discuss pertinent vaping statistics and where you can find help for vaping addiction. If you, your teen, or your loved one is addicted to vaping, call Thrive Teen today.
Thrive Teen offers mental health services for teens in California. Learn more about our Teen Treatment Program here.
Vaping simulates smoking through the use of a vaping device such as an e-cigarette, pen, or similar device. These devices are battery-operated, and people use them to inhale an aerosol that commonly contains nicotine as well as flavorings, and other chemicals. These devices can be refillable or pre-filled with cartridges.
Vaping devices differ in construction, but all feature the same components including a battery, sensor, and atomizer/ flavor cartridge. The e-liquid is quickly heated and converted to an aerosol that can be inhaled into the lungs. The nicotine present in vaping devices is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream and enters the brain. Once it enters the brain, it releases epinephrine which stimulates the nervous system and increases breathing, blood pressure, and heart rate. As with many products that contain nicotine, it also releases dopamine which reinforces rewarding behaviors.
With this information at hand, the primary question becomes how long does it take to get addicted to vaping? Since vape products contain nicotine as their main ingredient, people can become addicted to vaping in a matter of minutes. The more people use vape, the more the brain and body get used to nicotine and its pleasurable and addictive effects. Not only is vaping addictive, but it is also harmful to one’s body.
Not only is nicotine harmful, but the aerosol by-product may also contain ultrafine particles that can travel deep into the lungs and cause irritation and breathing difficulties. Many flavorings that are found in vape “juice” contain the chemical diacetyl, which is connected to serious lung issues. The vape aerosol can also contain benzene, nickel, tin, and lead which are harmful to the body and brain. Additional hazards associated with vaping addiction include:
If you feel that you are becoming addicted to vaping, ask yourself the following questions:
If you answered “yes” to these questions, you most likely have a vape addiction and need professional intervention to kick the habit.
Because vape devices are legal and can be bought almost anywhere, people are of the assumption that vaping is safe. This is furthest from the truth. Vaping is addictive and dangerous to one’s health. If you or a loved one are dealing with an addiction to vaping, the best chance of quitting is through a structured, evidence-based program. Thrive Treatment is a top-tier treatment facility that provides you with the tools and support to kick vaping to the curb and helps you embrace a healthier lifestyle.
Call us toll-free today and beat your vape addiction for a lifetime.
