Waukegan, IL – The first death associated with vaping has been reported in Illinois and is generating renewed awareness for this growing trend. Vaping was originally introduced as a “safe” alternative to smoking traditional cigarettes and chewing tobacco. However, vaping has steadily gained in popularity among teens and young adults who did not previously use tobacco and health officials are rightly concerned.
As more cases are monitored, it is evident the dangers and risks associated with vaping are not clearly defined or understood. People who vape are more susceptible to serious respiratory illnesses and often there are unnamed chemicals, dyes and other additives that present additional concerns.
While nicotine is the main concern currently, the use of marijuana in electronic vaping devices is increasing. Parents are often unaware their teen is vaping, let alone potentially using marijuana. The Center for Disease Control (Or CDC for short) is actively looking to combat this growing trend in our state.
It is important for parents and adults who interact with teens are educated on the dangers of using vaping devices for either nicotine or marijuana. Lake Behavioral Hospital offers both inpatient care and outpatient mental health services for adolescents who may be experiencing a mood disorder or substance use concern.
Free mental health assessments are offered 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Call 855-990-1900 to schedule an appointment or for more information.