What is Tobacco?
Tobacco is a stimulant drug derived from leaves of the tobacco plant. Nicotine is tobacco’s active ingredient. E-cigarettes (vapes) do not contain tobacco but may contain nicotine.
There are a number of factors that impact how a young person might experience a drug, such as their location, gender, size, mood and if other drugs, alcohol or if medication has been taken.
UNDERSTANDING:
Understanding more about why a young person might choose to smoke cigarettes, can help guide future conversations with them. Some young people report using cigarettes to help calm them down or create a break in stressful situations.
While a young person may use for many reasons, sometimes drugs can have unintended side effects. Here are some ways to support a young person who might have had too many cigarettes:
- Offer them fresh air and water
- Offer them a distraction or a break from smoking
- Ask if they want to change their smoking habits and offer useful suggestions as to how
- A GP can prescribe nicotine replacement therapy (NRT)
Check out these articles to understand how to best support your young person
Understanding adolescent development in relation to drug use ADF
Risk taking behaviours and adolescents Headspace
Importance of peer relationship headspace
How to start a conversation about drug use with someone you are concerned about YoDAA video
We know families have a lot of questions about substance use. Reach out to YoDAA help better understand and support your young person.
Get help now
YoDAA is a free and confidential online and phone service that offers supports to young people, families and professionals. You can contact 9am -8pm Monday to Friday.