A doctor has raised concerns about the potential mental health effects of vaping, particularly among teenagers and young adults whose brains are still developing. Research from the American Heart Association in 2023 examined 2,500 people aged 13 to 24 and found an association between vaping nicotine or THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis, and self-reported symptoms of anxiety and depression. The findings are especially concerning because many young people turn to vaping in the hope of managing stress. Among participants who vaped THC-containing products, 70 percent reported anxiety symptoms, compared with 60 percent of nicotine vapers and 40 percent of those who did not vape. More than half of the vaping participants also reported depressive symptoms, while reports of suicidal thoughts were higher among vapers than non-vapers. Researchers stressed that these findings show an association and do not prove that vaping directly causes mental health problems. Nevertheless, the results highlight the need for further research into the effects of vaping on young people.

Study author Dr. Joy Hart, a professor of communication at the University of Louisville, noted that younger people may be particularly vulnerable to nicotine and other substances. The research also raised questions about people who use both nicotine and THC products, as combined use may contribute to dependence or be associated with greater emotional difficulties. Separately, a simulation examining daily vaping outlined potential effects on the body, including nicotine dependence, respiratory irritation, changes in heart rate and withdrawal symptoms after quitting. Although vaping is generally considered less harmful than smoking traditional cigarettes, health experts emphasize that it is not risk-free. E-cigarettes can expose users to nicotine and other chemicals, and their long-term effects are still being studied. Young people who have never smoked are advised not to start vaping. Anyone experiencing persistent anxiety, depression or other mental health symptoms should consider speaking with a qualified healthcare professional rather than relying on vaping for relief. The central message from researchers is clear: appealing flavours do not make vape products harmless, and understanding the risks is especially important for younger users.