Working Together Making the Greater Five Towns A Drug-Free Community

The Marion & Aaron Gural JCC 207 Grove Avenue Cedarhurst, NY 11516 (516) 569-6733

PARENT ACADEMY

COVID-19 is a Good Reason to Help Your Child Quit (or Never Start) Vaping

According to medical experts, vaping (or JUULing) can weaken the respiratory system which makes the lungs more prone to infection. This has some experts drawing a connection between vaping and COVID-19.

When asked in an interview why the United States has such a  high number of young people who have contracted COVID-19 , t he Surgeon General, Jerome Adams, said vaping may be a potential reason. Additionally, Dr. Nora Volkow, the Director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse, flagged the  potential increased risks of contracting COVID-19  for people who vape nicotine or marijuana in her recent blog post:

What Can Parents Do?

The connection between vaping and an increased vulnerability to COVID-19 can be a strong talking point when discussing vaping with your teen or young adult. Not only is it important that your child stays healthy, but it’s important not to risk the health of other people in the home.  Other risks of vaping include toxins and fine metal particles in the e-liquid, the risk of nicotine or marijuana addiction, and changes to how a young person’s brain develops. If you have previously asked your child to quit or cut back without the result you’d hoped for, the circumstances surrounding COVID-19 present a good opportunity to try again. Help with quitting is widely available via apps, telehealth programs, approved medication and nicotine replacement therapies.

What You Need to Know And How to Talk With Your Kids About Vaping Guide ( Download Full Guide Here )

VIDEO - VAPING THE HIT YOUR BRAIN TAKES

ADDICTION POLICY FORUM

If you suspect or know your child may be using substances, please reach out to us for help. We are here to ensure you have the information and support you need.

For further information about how you can join our Community Coalition to help reduce youth drug and alcohol misuse in the Greater Five Towns please contact Susan Blauner, Director Substance Abuse Prevention, Awareness and Education P: 516.569-6733 E: susan.blauner@guraljcc.org

"bringing about community awareness to address youth mental health and addiction issues and to reduce youth drug and alcohol use through education, media advocacy, increased enforcement and changes in policies."