If your teen is vaping, it's important to act before it becomes a long-term habit. Here are three effective, doable steps you can take to help your teen quit vaping:

1. Open a Conversation: Start by having a non-judgmental conversation. Research from the Partnership to End Addiction shows that teens who feel supported by their parents are 70% less likely to continue using substances like nicotine. Ask questions like, "What made you want to try vaping?" or "Have you thought about stopping?" Creating a safe space for dialogue can make a significant difference.
2. Set Clear Expectations: Establish clear rules about vaping and the consequences for continued use. It’s important that parents go the extra effort to create an agreement laying out clear expectations for their teen’s behavior. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that parents set boundaries around nicotine use and consistently enforce them. Reinforce positive behavior with rewards for progress, such as completing a week or month without vaping.
3. Help Them Find Alternatives: Since nicotine is highly addictive, finding healthy alternatives is essential. Physical activity, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), can reduce cravings and improve mood. Encourage your teen to engage in new hobbies, sports, or creative activities to divert their attention from vaping.  Consider speaking with them about trying mental health therapy for additional support. 

References:

Partnership to End Addiction, "Supporting Teens Through Substance Use," 2021.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, "Talking to Teens About Vaping," 2021.

National Institute on Drug Abuse, "Vaping and Nicotine Addiction," 2020.