Vaping Nicotine or THC Linked to Higher Anxiety in Teens

Kids who vape are more likely to experience symptoms of anxiety and depression, according to a new study. The study included more than 2,500 teens and young adults who took an online mental health survey led by the American Heart Association. The participants included kids who vaped nicotine only, kids who vaped THC (the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana), dual vapers who used both chemicals, and people who had never vaped.

About 60% of the vapers reported suffering anxiety symptoms within the past week, including worries and panic attacks. That's compared to just 40% of the non-vapers. A much larger percentage of vapers also reported symptoms of depression, and more than 50% of vapers said they'd had suicidal thoughts within the past year, compared to one-third of non-vapers.

One author warns that dual vaping may compound the addictive nature of vaping as well as impact symptoms of depression. She says "These findings suggest the importance of addressing the use of THC and the need for building resistance and coping skills for teens and young adults." More than 2.5 million teens in the US used e-cigarettes in 2022, leading the Surgeon General to declare the problem an "Epidemic."