A recent study conducted by Australia's Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use highlights the urgent need to address mental health issues to prevent the rising rates of vaping among adolescents.

The research surveyed over 5,000 students aged 12 to 14 across three Australian states, revealing that approximately 8% of respondents had tried vaping.

Among these students, 2% reported vaping in the last month, with the prevalence increasing among older teens.

The study found that students experiencing moderate stress were 74% more likely to take up vaping, while those with severe stress were 64% more likely to start using e-cigarettes.

Additionally, around one third of participants reported poor well-being, another third faced high stress, and nearly 20% experienced high anxiety.

Notably, students with severe depressive symptoms were found to be over twice as likely to have tried vaping compared to their peers without depressive symptoms.

Co-author Emily Stockings emphasized that vaping might serve as a coping mechanism for anxiety and stress among young people.

This study aligns with growing concerns about mental health disorders among young people, which have surged by nearly 50% over the past 15 years.

While the research indicates a correlation between vaping and mental health issues, it does not establish a causal relationship, as data was collected at a single point in time.

Experts, including Dr. Lauren Gardner, stress the importance of addressing the link between adolescent vaping and mental health in Australia.

Stockings noted that while nicotine may provide temporary relief from stress, its long-term effects on mental health should not be overlooked.

Understanding the biological factors influencing adolescent behavior is crucial for parents and educators in tackling substance use effectively.