Nicotine is one of the most addictive substances in the world. You don’t have to vape daily to become addicted. 

Some of the signs you or a friend may be addicted to nicotine include needing to vape soon after you wake in the morning (within 30 minutes), finding it hard to concentrate if you haven’t vaped recently, or turning to your vape when you’re stressed.

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See your GP, youth health services or other health services for help quitting vaping.

You can also call Quitline ​on 13 7848

Nicotine withdrawal symptoms include

​Try these strategies to help you cope with the urge (craving) to vape

• ​Avoid your triggers as much as you can in the first two weeks.
• Carry a snack with you (e.g. an apple of banana) and reach for this instead of vaping when you have a craving to vape. This can give you the dopamine hit your brain and body is craving without the harm of nicotine and keep your hands and mouth busy.
• Get active - go for a walk or run.
• Ask for help. Ask someone to support you, like a friend who also wants to quit or doesn't vape, or an adult you can trust, like a parent/carer or school counsellor. A health professional can also help.
• Try deep breathing, meditation or other relaxation strategies. For example, square breathing, five count breath or these relaxation exercises​. A mindfulness app might give you some other ideas.
• Distract yourself. Talk to a friend, play a video game, read a book or listen to music. ​

What to expect if you try to quit vaping

After you quit, the physical symptoms usually get better during the first 2-4 weeks. 

But psychological craving to vape can last longer as your brain adapts and re-learns how to function without nicotine.

Nicotine withdrawal symptoms can be challenging, especially in the first few days or weeks of quitting, but they don't​ last forever. Withdrawal symptoms, while uncomfortable, are a sign your body is recovering.

A health professional can support you to quit. They can provide advice on whether you should try Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) to help you quit.​​

Keep trying -  It’s normal to slip-up when you’re trying to quit. It might take a few tries to quit successfully. Each time you try to quit, you learn more about what works and doesn’t work for you. Support from a health professional can help you get back on track.

Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) may be an option for you

Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) (patches, gums, lozenges, mouth spray, inhalers) may help if you are finding it difficult to manage your cravings or to quit vaping. It can be particularly helpful in the first two weeks after quitting. It is safe to use in people aged 12 and over. 

Nicotine Replacement Therapy is most effective when combined with support from a health professional who can provide tips for how to manage cravings and regularly review to see how you are going. 

Speak to your GP or pharmacist for advice.

Where to get help

If you think you or a friend might be addicted to vaping, there is help available. See your GP, youth health services or other health services for help with quitting vaping. 

You can also call the Quitline​ on 13 7848.