In recent years, vaping has shifted from a trendy habit to a significant public health concern. This transformation has been driven by clever marketing, appealing flavours, and a highly addictive substance: nicotine.
The vapour is distinct, not like the smell or taste of a traditional cigarette. It’s affordable and easily accessible. It’s convenient and, in many circles, more socially acceptable than smoking. These factors make it particularly appealing to the younger generation. At Perth Hypnosis Clinic, we understand the challenges of quitting vaping and are here to help you overcome this addiction through hypnosis sessions.
Why Vaping is So Addictive
Vaping (e-cigarettes), like traditional smoking, involves the inhalation of nicotine – a substance known for its highly addictive properties. Research suggests that nicotine can be as addictive as heroin or cocaine. This particularly concerns young people, whose brains continue developing until age 25. Nicotine quickly reaches the brain within 10 seconds of inhalation, triggering the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward.
Dopamine is part of the brain’s feedback reward system that says, “Whatever just happened felt good”, and trains the brain to repeat the action. But nicotine, unlike other drugs such as alcohol, quickly leaves the body once it is broken down by the liver. Once it’s gone, the brain craves nicotine again, especially in the adolescent brain, which is more sensitive to rewards. This process reinforces the desire to vape, creating a cycle of dependency.
Health Risks of Vaping
The health risks associated with vaping are numerous and serious. These include:
- Nicotine dependence
- Persistent coughing
- Nausea and vomiting
- Chest pain and palpitations
- Poisoning and seizures from nicotine overdose
- Burns or injuries from vape device malfunctions
- Respiratory issues and potential permanent lung damage
- Harm to the developing adolescent brain
One of the most alarming conditions linked to vaping is E-cigarette or Vaping Product Use-Associated Lung Injury (EVALI). This severe lung condition has been associated with THC-containing vaping products and the thickening agent vitamin E acetate. By early 2020, EVALI had resulted in approximately 2,800 cases and 68 deaths. It is recommended that people:
- Do not use THC-containing e-cigarettes or vaping products.
- Avoid using informal sources, such as friends, family or online dealers, to obtain a vaping device.
- Do not modify or add any substances to a vaping device that are not intended by the manufacturer.
The Hidden Dangers Inside Vapes
The rise of vaping as a popular alternative to traditional smoking has led many to wonder: what exactly is inside a vape? Research has shown that nicotine levels in vapes have significantly increased over the past five years. Some vapes now contain the nicotine equivalent of 14 packs of cigarettes. Besides nicotine, vapes often include other harmful chemicals, such as the cooling agent WS23 and benzoic acid, which can pose additional health risks. This synthetic coolant, WS23, helps combat the burning sensation caused by inhaling nicotine. Despite regulatory efforts, these high-nicotine products remain accessible, contributing to the ongoing health crisis.
Even without nicotine, vaping liquids contain various flavourings and additives whose long-term health effects are not fully understood. Preliminary research indicates that vaping can have harmful effects, making it far from a safe alternative to smoking.
How Hypnosis Can Help You Quit Vaping
Quitting vaping can be challenging, but hypnosis offers a powerful tool to help you overcome this addiction. Our Experienced Clinical Hypnotherapists can help you break free from nicotine dependency. Our sessions help to address your habits, beliefs, and the underlying emotional factors that contribute to your vaping addiction. This approach can help you overcome your cravings and make quitting easier, allowing you to live the life you want and deserve.
