After years of the same “vaping is bad” presentation, we all know the adverse effects, but vaping is still a large problem at Fargo South. Due to the accessibility of vapes, peer pressure, and the struggles of addiction, so many students at South fall prey to nicotine addiction. 

We’ve all heard the Spotify ads, but it can seem difficult to understand the life-threatening severity of our actions when we seem so youthful. It is important to have a reason to quit, so what are some more tangible incentives to deny such a strong addiction?

First of all, nicotine addiction can be an unfortunate financial commitment. Whether you smoke cigarettes, disposable vapes, or a refillable vape, you are spending large amounts of money to feed your addiction, even when choosing cheaper options. 

Another proven side effect of vaping is an increase in stress. There is a common misconception that vaping can reduce anxiety, but the habit only causes more stress in your need to do it. 

Medical studies have shown that vaping, even for only a few minutes, can increase stress related chemicals in the brain two to four times higher than before. That is disregarding the less quantifiable stress that comes with any type of addiction. Life is stressful enough without vaping. 

Vaping is said to be a better alternative to smoking, and although nicotine levels are lower, they’re still far from harmless. Although it is difficult to imagine death when in such a prosperous youthful state, vaping can be extremely dangerous for your long term health. 

Even just temporarily, you may see the effects on your breathing and endurance in simple situations like sports or gym class. These are so small in comparison to some of the larger problems you will inevitably see in the future if you continue.  

Vaping is an addiction, there is nothing justifiable, especially when done underage. As a teenager the last thing you need is a drained bank account, a double in your stress, and negative health effects. No amount of social status is worth the sacrifice, it is never too late to quit.