The Link Between Vaping and Mental Health: Young Vapers Suffer Depression, Anxiety, or Panic Attacks
Concerns about vaping’s potential detrimental effects on mental health are increasing as it continues to become more popular among younger generations. Young people who vape may be more likely to experience sadness, anxiety, or panic attacks, according to studies.
One study found that adolescents who vape were twice as likely to experience depressive symptoms than non-vapers, according to research in the Journal of Adolescent Health. Another research published in the Journal of Abnormal Psychology discovered that young adults who vape are more likely than those who do not to report symptoms of anxiety and depression.
But why could smoking be linked to these problems with mental health? According to one hypothesis, nicotine from e-cigarettes can change brain chemistry and cause mood disorders. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a part in reward and enjoyment but is also linked to anxiety and addiction. Nicotine has been shown to boost dopamine release.
Additionally, vaping itself may make anxiety feelings worse. Vaping’s repetitive hand-to-mouth action and inhalation/exhalation patterns can resemble the physical symptoms of a panic attack, which may cause or exacerbate anxiety in those who are more susceptible to it.
In order to completely comprehend the connection between vaping and mental health, it’s important to keep in mind that these studies are still fairly recent. However, it is important to be aware of the risks, especially for young people who are still going through a period of physical and emotional growth.
It’s crucial to seek assistance from a mental health professional if you or a loved one is a young vaper experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, or panic attacks. Giving up vaping could be a good first move toward enhancing general health and wellbeing.
In conclusion, it is obvious that there are still potential health risks associated with the habit even though vaping may be thought of as a safer option to smoking conventional cigarettes. Particularly for young vapers, it’s important to be aware of the possibility of having mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, or panic attacks. It’s critical to inform ourselves and the next generation about the potential dangers of vaping and to give mental health top priority in our routines for physical and mental wellbeing.
Should you be experiencing any of the issues mentioned in this article, please contact us, and we will see what we can do to help with your situation.