Vaping's Impact on Mental Wellness: Surprising Consequences That Aren't Common Knowledge
Vaping, the act of inhaling and exhaling aerosol produced by electronic cigarettes or similar devices, has become a popular alternative to traditional smoking. However, recent studies have shed light on the potential health risks associated with vaping.
In the short term, vaping can lead to a variety of physical side effects. These include coughing, shortness of breath, headaches, dizziness, nausea, fast heart rate, high blood pressure, and lung injury such as EVALI (e-cigarette or vaping product use-associated lung injury)[1][4]. Vaping also exposes the lungs to harmful chemicals like formaldehyde and acrolein, and toxic metals such as nickel and lead, which may increase respiratory irritation and worsen conditions like asthma[3][5].
The immediate effects of vaping are not limited to the physical realm. Nicotine, a major component of most e-liquids, can cause short-term feelings of anxiety[2]. Over time, nicotine dependence and brain changes can lead to increased anxiety, irritability, and depression[3]. Adult vapers are reported to be more than twice as likely to be diagnosed with depression than non-vapers[3].
The long-term physical side effects of vaping can be more serious. Vaping can cause lung damage and chronic respiratory issues due to chemical and metal exposure[3][5]. It may also lead to fertility problems in both women (hormonal disturbance, implantation reduction) and men (sperm structure and function impairment)[3]. There is a potential risk for kidney disease linked to metal exposure[3]. Impaired brain development, particularly in prefrontal areas, can lead to attention deficit disorders and impulse control problems[3].
Despite these risks, quitting vaping can be challenging. Removing temptations and changing routines can help make the process easier. Support from friends and family, and possibly a mental health professional, can also be beneficial. Speaking to a therapist may be particularly helpful for those seeking help to quit vaping[6].
It's important to note that the long-term safety of vaping is still being studied. However, current evidence points to significant risks and does not support vaping as a safe alternative to smoking[3][5]. For those interested in getting started with mental health care, a free consultation is available at 844-867-8444.
[1] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). EVALI Outbreak Update: 2,807 Hospitalized Patients Across All 50 States, DC, and 2 U.S. Territories. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_information/e-cigarettes/severe-lung-disease.html
[2] National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2020). Nicotine: What You Don't Know Can Hurt You. Retrieved from https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/nicotine
[3] American Lung Association. (2020). E-cigarettes and Lung Health. Retrieved from https://www.lung.org/stop-smoking/smoking-facts/e-cigarettes-and-lung-health.html
[4] Food and Drug Administration. (2020). FDA Issues Final Guidance on Certain Requirements for Premarket Authorization of Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS). Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/tobacco-products/guidance-regulation-and-policy/premarket-review-policies-tobacco-products/fda-issues-final-guidance-certain-requirements-premarket-authorization-electronic
[5] World Health Organization. (2020). E-cigarettes and heated tobacco products. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/q-a-detail/e-cigarettes-and-heated-tobacco-products
[6] Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2020). Find Help for Vaping. Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/disaster-distress-helpline/vaping-help
Mental health professionals could offer assistance for individuals struggling to quit vaping, especially for those experiencing increased anxiety, irritability, and depression, as prolonged nicotine exposure may lead to such mental health issues. Interestingly, a study on mental health care revealed a higher risk for depression in adult vapers compared to non-vapers.
Considering the potential long-term health risks associated with vaping—such as lung damage, chronic respiratory issues, and fertility problems—it's essential to note that the science surrounding vaping as a safe alternative to smoking is still being studied and currently does not support this claim.
