Health Effects
True or False: Vapes heat an e-liquid to create water vapour.
False (It creates an aerosol of fine particles, not just water vapour).
True or False: It is legal for people under 18 to vape, as long as the vape does not contain nicotine.
False.
True or False: I can protect myself from getting addicted by only vaping sometimes.
False (Nicotine is highly addictive and patterns can form quickly).
True or False: Most young people are successful in quitting nicotine on their very first attempt.
False (Quitting often takes multiple attempts, which is normal).
True or False: Smoking cigarettes can be harmful to bystanders, but second-hand vape aerosol is completely harmless to people around you.
False (Vape aerosol contains harmful chemicals that bystanders can inhale).
True or False: Vapes are safe as long as the flavouring used is safe for food or drinks.
False (Ingredients safe for eating/drinking can be toxic when heated and inhaled into the lungs).
Why can you not always trust a vape label that says "nicotine-free"?
Because vapes often contain nicotine even when it is not listed as an ingredient on the packaging.
Why is it easier for young people to become addicted to vaping compared to adults over 25?
Because young peoples' brains are still growing and nicotine can easily rewire the brain.
Name at least two professional services or people a student can reach out to for help quitting vaping.
Quitline (13 78 48), Kids Helpline, a doctor, or a psychologist.
In assertive communication, what is the third step after saying "no" and giving your reason?
Show you understand where they are coming from (acknowledging their perspective while holding your boundary).
Name three potential short-term health effects of vaping.
Any three of: Vomiting, coughing, seizures, bad breath, tooth decay, or gum disease.
How is nicotine officially classified as a substance in Australia?
As a poison.
Name two signs or symptoms that someone might be addicted to nicotine.
Any two of: Craving vapes/cigarettes, feeling irritable/restless when unable to vape, or difficulty concentrating on things other than vaping.
What are two positive structural steps someone can take to become vape-free, outside of using distractions?
Cutting down usage gradually, avoiding negative influences (people/places), or leaning on a support system (friends/family).
Give an example of a healthy, assertive response to peer pressure to vape that balances your boundary with empathy.
"No thanks, I don't feel like vaping today. I know you're just trying to have fun, but I'm still enjoying myself!"
True or False: Vaping is good for the environment. Why or Why not?
False (Vapes create plastic, chemical, and electronic waste).
True or False: The long-term health harms of vaping are fully known and thoroughly documented. Why or why not?
(Because vaping is relatively new, the long-term harms are still being uncovered).
What does nicotine release in the brain to make a user temporarily feel good, and what physical change can it cause over time?
It releases a temporary "feel-good" chemical (dopamine) and can change the physical structure of the brain.
Give three examples of healthy "distractions" someone can use until a vape craving passes.
Playing a game, taking a shower, or chewing gum.
Which of these is the better example of an assertive response to peer pressure: "No thanks, I have to go to the bathroom!" OR "No thanks, I don't feel like vaping today. I know you're just trying to have fun, but I'm still enjoying myself!" and why?
The second response is better because it is honest, direct, and acknowledges the other person's perspective, whereas the first response is just an excuse to avoid the situation.
Many people believe vapes are harmless because they think they only produce "water vapour." What is the aerosol actually made of, and why is that dangerous for the lungs?
It is a chemical aerosol, not water vapour, containing toxic substances that are harmful to the body when inhaled.
Even if a vape product says "nicotine-free" on the packaging, why is it still risky to use or trust the product?
Vapes often contain nicotine even when it is not listed as an ingredient on the packaging.
Irritability, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating are all symptoms of what process?
Nicotine withdrawal.
Explain why using vaping to relieve stress is a myth that actually leads to a cycle of addiction.
Vaping only relieves the withdrawal symptoms it created in the first place, meaning the "stress relief" is temporary and triggers more cravings.
According to the Australian Secondary Students' Alcohol and Drug Survey, what percentage of 12–15-year-olds have never tried vaping?
nearest 5%+-
76% (showing that most young people choose not to vape).