Month: October 2023

Are you worried your teenage child might be vaping? As a parent, it’s natural to be concerned about the influences surrounding our adolescents, particularly when issues like teenage vaping are rising.

Vaping, despite its legal age restrictions, is increasingly becoming a widespread habit among teenagers. In fact, it’s been labelled an “epidemic” by experts. The ASH Smokefree GB Youth Survey reveals that a staggering 20.5% of children have tried vaping, and 7.6% are currently using e-cigarettes.

While vaping serves as a cessation tool for some adults trying to stop smoking, it’s an entirely different story when it comes to marketing. Colourful packaging and sweet flavours, specifically designed to lure young consumers, are just the tip of the iceberg. The allure of vaping for teenagers often hinges on its cool and rebellious image, an appeal actively exploited by social media influencers. Even though adverts promoting vapes are banned on platforms like TikTok, the use of e-cigarettes among influencers remains widespread.

It’s important to understand that vaping is far from a harmless habit. Besides damaging the lungs and exacerbating asthma, vaping increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and lung cancer. Yet, the most vulnerable in this scenario are young people with developing brains at risk of nicotine’s long-term, lasting effects. Nicotine addiction, mood disorders, permanent impulse control reduction, and harm to cognitive functions are all associated with teenage vaping—a fate you’d undoubtedly want to spare your child from.

However, it’s crucial to maintain a balanced perspective. While vaping may seem ubiquitous in the media, it’s less common among youngsters than one might think. As you mentioned, less than 8% of children in the UK are currently vaping. While this number is relatively low, it’s essential to acknowledge that vaping is a reality for some teenagers, and its usage is rising. If you’re concerned that your teen may be vaping, it’s vital to have an open and informed conversation with them about the associated risks.

In this blog, we’ll explore the hidden dangers of teenage vaping and provide you with the knowledge and tools to engage your teenager in a constructive conversation about this worrying trend.

Signs your teenager is vaping

You might notice increased coughing at night, irritability, and thirst. The usual giveaway is the fruity and sweet scents wafting from their room.

How to start the conversation

• Choose a time and place to have a private conversation without distractions.
• Start by letting your teen know you’re concerned about them and want to talk to them about vaping.
• Be open and honest with your teen. Let them know you’re not there to judge them but want to help them make informed decisions about their health.

What to say

• Talk to your teen about why they should want to quit, and then you can tailor your support accordingly. The environmental impact of single-use vapes can be a good motivator for young people.
• Be empathetic and understanding. Let your teen know that you know they might be tempted to vape but that it’s essential to resist the urge. Quitting vaping is hard, especially for teens. Let your teen know you’re there for them and willing to help however possible.
• Encourage your teen to ask questions and be ready to answer them openly and honestly.

How to handle your teen’s reactions 

• Be prepared for mixed reactions from your teen. Some teens may be receptive to your concerns and willing to discuss vaping. Others may be defensive or angry.
• If your teen is defensive or angry, stay calm to avoid arguing. Let them know you’re there to listen and want to support them.
• Don’t give up if your teen is unwilling to talk to you about vaping. Try to speak to them again at a later time. You could also suggest they talk to a trusted adult, such as a teacher or counsellor.

Additional tips

• Be respectful of your teen’s feelings.
• Avoid using judgmental language.
• Focus on the facts.
• Be patient. It may take some time for your teen to come around.
• Don’t panic. Give yourself time to let your feelings settle, and then you can feel prepared to have a constructive conversation with them.
• Be a role model: If you or anyone in your household vapes, consider quitting or using alternatives. It’s much harder for them to vape and more accessible to resist temptation if no vaping devices or products are around the house.

Vaping among teenagers is an escalating concern, but as a parent or carer, you hold the key to making a real difference in your child’s life. Remember, the most crucial aspect is to ensure your teenager knows you’re there for them and that your support is unwavering.

If you face challenges communicating with your teen or need further guidance on steering the often complex issues surrounding adolescence, I specialise in providing support and guidance. Get in touch with me to explore how we can collaborate to ensure the well-being and future of your teenager.
As parents, caregivers, and professionals, we can empower our youth to make informed, healthier choices. Your proactive steps today will pave the way for your teen’s safer and brighter tomorrow.

Once you’ve decided to explore therapy, you might wonder what you will discuss in your sessions. It can feel like standing at the edge of an abyss, wondering where to start and what will happen once you jump in. This article will give you some insights and tips on where to begin with your therapy.

The foundation for open communication between you and your counsellor hinges on establishing trust. You must feel safe and secure in your sessions, as this emotional safety net means you can share your thoughts and feelings candidly. Building rapport is crucial in making the connection between you and your therapist robust and positive. This connection is vital and something I, as your counsellor, am well-versed in nurturing, as it is a linchpin for the effectiveness of your therapy.

In our sessions, I ensure to provide a safe and confidential space. You gradually build trust by being able to share your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without fear of judgment. This trust is the foundation upon which meaningful therapeutic work can occur. It means you can confront challenges and work towards positive change with the confidence that I am there to support and guide you.

Helpful topics to discuss in therapy

Here are some topics you may find helpful to talk about in your sessions:

• Setting goals

Setting clear therapy goals together helps guide our conversation and is also great for helping you track your progress. You and I will work together on them, regularly reviewing and checking in to ensure your counselling stays on track.

Having well-defined objectives can make the counselling process more productive and goal-oriented. Some examples of goals might be improving communication, learning coping mechanisms to change unhelpful behaviours, or gaining a better understanding of yourself. You can also identify and discuss your personal growth and well-being goals beyond therapy.

• Exploring emotions

Talking about your positive or negative feelings is crucial for self-awareness. Exploring your emotions might be something you are not used to but don’t worry; as your counsellor, I will safely help with this.

Emotional self-awareness benefits your personal growth, and you might discuss tips and exercises to try at home to help you develop this. For example, you might be feeling a sense of loneliness and disconnection from people or feeling guilt for doing something wrong. Therapy will help you work out where these feelings come from and help you find ways to forgive yourself.

• Life events

There might be an experience or significant life event you’ve experienced that is affecting your mental health, causing you anxiety or depression. These may be life transitions, such as your child starting school or moving away to go to university; for example, therapy gives you the perfect space to share what has happened, which provides room to start processing and ultimately healing. 

• Relationships

Discussing your relationships can be essential to understanding how they impact your wellbeing. There could be a fundamental relationship you want to explore with a family member, teenage child, or a friend, for example. It can also be helpful to explore how past relationships might still impact you now.

Therapy is a great practice ground for boundary setting. When you have healthy boundaries in your counselling relationship, it’s easier to recognise and set them in your personal life. You can discuss how to put boundaries in place and their importance in healthy relationships.

• Coping strategies

You might discuss your developed coping strategies and then evaluate what works less well. You can find alternative and healthy ways of managing together. Self-care is vital to overall mental health, and you can discuss what you do to help yourself feel good and better understand what else you can do.

• Reflection and feedback

Reflecting on your progress in therapy helps you apply what you have learned. It’s good to bounce ideas around about how you feel your counselling is going and to ask any questions you may have about your therapy.

Finding a therapist

There can be a perception that counselling is only for when you have a severe issue or specific problem that you must work through. There is a growing recognition of the effectiveness of talking things through with a neutral person to have the space to talk through whatever is on your mind. You can decide on the support you need before a problem feels overwhelming.

Finding the therapist that is a good fit for you is essential. It can feel daunting, but here are a couple of key tips on what to look for in a therapist:

• Ensure they are fully qualified and have the appropriate training and experience to help you with your needs.
• You should feel comfortable and safe with your therapist. They should be someone you can trust and who you feel understands you.

Feeling comfortable with your therapist and confident they can help you is essential. If you don’t feel connected with a particular therapist, don’t be afraid to try someone else – we won’t mind, honestly! 

Here are some additional tips for finding a therapist:

• Ask your friends, family, or doctor for recommendations.
• Look for therapists in your area who specialise in your specific needs, such as family issues, relationships, parenting tweens and teens, and neurodivergence (such as ADHD or autism).

Finding the right therapist can be challenging, but finding someone who is a good ‘fit’ for you and can help you with mental health and wellbeing is essential. You will feel more confident and prepared as you begin your therapy journey.

Don’t hesitate to reach out if you’re ready to take the first step towards personal growth and positive change. Once you’ve contacted me, I’ll promptly reach out to schedule a convenient time to catch up by phone. Together, we can embark on self-discovery and empowerment through therapy.

I look forward to supporting you on this path.