In many communities, vaping has become nearly as common as cigarettes. But is it safe? Can you develop an addiction to vaping?
Vaping is highly addictive due to the presence of nicotine. That’s the same substance found in cigarettes. Some vaping products include other substances that also carry the risk of addiction.
If you have a substance use disorder (SUD) or you are afraid you will develop one, it helps to understand the reality behind vaping and what it could mean for your future. At Iron Bridge Recovery Center, we provide the tools and resources you need to recover.
Why Is Vaping Risky Behavior?
About 29.3 million Americans over the age of 12 vape at least once a month, according to research from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Modern e-cigs deliver a high concentration of nicotine directly to the brain, creating a faster result than the traditional smoking process. This can, in some situations, make them even more dangerous than cigarettes.
There are several potential health effects from vaping:
- Nicotine is a toxic substance. It may damage the lungs and brain function and cause cancer in various systems in the body.
- The high concentration of nicotine can be toxic, especially for children.
- Nicotine is addictive. That means it changes the way the brain functions, creating a strong desire to seek out the substance. Some people prioritize seeking the substance over responsible decisions.
- Those who vape are more likely to develop other substance use disorders (SUD), including smoking cigarettes, according to data shared by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
- Vaping can shorten a person’s life. That’s thanks to the development of cancers, increased risk of heart disease, and the likelihood of engaging in reckless behavior.
Vaping seems innocent, and because it is readily available, many don’t know the risks behind its use. If you’re struggling with this or other drug addiction, getting help from Iron Bridge can be life-changing.
How to Know You Have a Vaping Addiction?
Getting treatment for a vaping addiction is beneficial to anyone who feels compelled to use the substance on a routine basis. If you try to stop using it and you feel any of the following withdrawal symptoms, you may need professional addiction treatment:
- Feeling intensely irritable or anxious
- Struggling to concentrate
- Feeling sad and down without a reason to be
- Craving nicotine, including thinking about it often
- Changes to sleep patterns
- Feeling hungry often
Vaping addiction isn’t something to minimize. The way you feel is very much brought on by the changes in the brain’s chemistry and function due to the presence of the substance.
Mental Health and Vaping
Vaping can impact mental health. For some, it seems to be beneficial. For most, continued use leads to negative outcomes.
Though studies still seek a better understanding of this link, there is a connection between vaping and mental health. In the moment of using a vape, you may feel a sense of relief and calmness. You may get a bit of a high from it. That dependency hides the negative impact the substance is having on your well-being.
Many people find that, once they detox and remove nicotine from their body, they have fewer signs of depression, anxiety, and stress. They feel a sense of improved quality of life. Yet, the substance may be making it worse. Getting treatment may be necessary to improve mental health.
Do You Need Addiction Treatment for Vaping?
You might benefit from addiction treatment for vaping if you are using substantial amounts and struggling to stop using it. Why?
- Controlling withdrawal symptoms is often necessary to break dependence. A professional detox program provides support to overcome intense feelings.
- Many people struggling with vaping are also at risk for struggling with other substance use disorders. Treatment now may help minimize worsening health risks.
- Addiction is a disease, in any form, requiring mental health support and treatment. Professional support allows you to regain control over the way your negative thoughts impact your feelings and actions.
Not everyone who vapes needs residential drug treatment. However, if you are using other substances, including alcohol, seeking treatment may protect your future. Speak to us about outpatient therapy for SUD or the complications you are facing from vaping addiction.
How We Can Help You
Iron Bridge Recovery Center provides treatment for alcohol, benzo, fentanyl, meth, and other substances. If you are struggling with these or others, contact us for a consultation and assessment. Let us provide you with the care you need to recover from addiction. Contact us now for help.
