You may feel pressured by friends or family to try vaping
OR BY THE INDUSTRY THAT MAKES MONEY FROM YOUR ADDICTION
PRESSURE TO VAPE
Feeling pressure can make it hard to decide what to do or say. Understanding WHERE pressures come from and HOW others make you feel this way can make it easier.
WHERE
pressure can come from:
Having friends who vape or wanting to try it might make you feel pressured to join them.
It might feel like friendships are dependent on whether you are willing to vape.
HOW
OTHERS CAN PRESSURE YOU: (28)
WHAT TO DO UNDER PRESSURE
Refusing to do something that you don’t want to do or that makes you uncomfortable can be hard. Think about your own personality and pick the ways that work best for you!
It may seem weird, but actually practicing what you will say can make it easier when faced with a difficult situation.
Refuse the offer (30)
Sometimes saying no is the simplest response. Make eye contact, use a firm and respectful tone of voice and repeat yourself if it is necessary.
“No thanks.”
“No, thanks. I don’t feel comfortable doing that.”
DELAY GIVING AN ANSWER (30)
“Maybe another time.”
“I’m meeting up with my friend. I’ll see you later.”
AGREE TO DO SOMETHING ELSE THAT MAKES YOU FEEL SAFE (30)
“I don’t feel like vaping. Do you want to go play basketball instead?”
Ask questions
Questions can be a good way to start having conversations about the risks of vaping, making it easier to refuse. (34)
“What made you try vaping?”
“Do you know the health risks of vaping?”
Suggest a different activity
Suggesting different activities provides everyone with a way out of the situation. (35)
“How about we _____ instead.”
“I would rather beat you in basketball!”
Say it’s not for you
Giving a reason or blaming something else can be a way to escape a situation you aren’t comfortable with. Whatever the reason, backing up your answer can give it more power.
(35)
“I need my lungs to be healthy since I’m on the track team.”
“My mom would kill me if I vaped!”
“ I have asthma, and it would mess with my lungs.”
Make a joke
Humour is a good way to lighten the mood and deflect the conversation. (36)
“I’m already addicted to air.”
“I’m already fun! I don’t need that.”
Walk away
If you’re feeling uncomfortable, walk away. It may feel socially risky but if you lead the way someone else might follow you.(28)
SUPPORTING OTHERS TO QUIT
By helping your friends quit, you can reduce the pressure to vape with them. Just remember that quitting can be hard, and it may take a few tries before they quit for good. Stay positive and encourage them along the way.