Helping Your Teen Quit Smoking & Vaping – Support for Parents

If you’re worried about your child smoking or vaping, you’re not alone. Many parents are facing the same challenge, and knowing how to help can make a big difference.

The good news is that teens who have support from their parents are more likely to successfully quit. Whether your teen has just started experimenting or has been smoking or vaping for a while, here are some ways you can support them:

✔ Start the conversation – Keep it open and non-judgmental. Ask questions and listen to their concerns without lecturing.
✔ Understand the challenges – Nicotine is highly addictive, and quitting can be tough. Your teen may experience cravings and mood changes, but with the right support, they can overcome them.
✔ Offer support, not pressure – Let them know you’re there to help. Encourage them to set a quit date and explore different methods that might work for them.
✔ Be a role model – If you smoke or vape, consider quitting together. Showing them that quitting is possible can be a powerful motivator.

Nutrients to Support their Quit Journey
Did you know that vitamin C and vitamin B3 (niacin) can help reduce tobacco cravings? Every cigarette uses about 25 mg of vitamin C, which means smokers often have higher vitamin C needs. Supplementing with vitamin C and niacin can support your body as it detoxifies, helping to ease withdrawal symptoms.

 

How to Implement Change

Today’s Challenge: If they’re ready to try, start by setting a quit date, stocking up on vitamin C and niacin, and plan taking the supplements for the first few days.

Here are several resources in the UK and internationally that can assist:

UK Resources:

• NHS Stop Smoking Services: The NHS provides free local Stop Smoking Services that offer expert advice, support, and encouragement to help individuals quit smoking and vaping. These services are tailored to individual needs and can significantly boost the chances of quitting successfully. ​nhs.uk+1nhs.uk+1
• ASH (Action on Smoking and Health): ASH provides resources and guidance for local authorities and schools to address youth vaping. They also offer support for parents and caregivers concerned about their children’s nicotine use. ​ASH+1The Guardian+1

International Resources:

• Smokefree Teen: An initiative by the U.S. National Cancer Institute, Smokefree Teen provides tools and resources designed to help teenagers quit smoking or vaping. This includes the quitSTART app and SmokefreeTXT for Teens, a text-based programme offering support throughout the quitting process. ​The Sun+5https://teen.smokefree.gov+5https://cdc.gov+5
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): The CDC offers resources aimed at helping youth reject or quit vaping, including information, tips, tools, and web-based support specifically tailored for teens. ​https://cdc.gov

💬 Encouragement for Parents:

Your support can make all the difference. Let’s help the next generation break free from nicotine addiction.