{"id":77449,"date":"2026-05-13T12:21:27","date_gmt":"2026-05-13T11:21:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.ascert.biz\/?p=77449"},"modified":"2026-05-13T12:21:27","modified_gmt":"2026-05-13T11:21:27","slug":"charity-warns-young-people-about-the-risks-of-vaping-to-cope-with-exam-pressures","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/devserva.inicodigital.com\/maina\/charity-warns-young-people-about-the-risks-of-vaping-to-cope-with-exam-pressures\/","title":{"rendered":"Charity Warns Young People About the Risks of Vaping to Cope with Exam Pressures"},"content":{"rendered":"

ASCERT is encouraging young people and families across Northern Ireland to be aware of the growing risks associated with vaping during exam season, as pressure linked to school performance continues to\u00a0impact\u00a0young people\u2019s mental wellbeing.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

With revision and exams now underway,\u00a0the charity\u00a0says some teenagers may be relying on nicotine products\u00a0in an attempt to\u00a0cope with stress,\u00a0anxiety\u00a0or tiredness,\u00a0despite the potential impact vaping can have on both physical and emotional health.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The latest\u00a0Mental Health Champion\u2019s\u00a0<\/span>Kids\u2019 Life and Times and Young Life and Times\u00a0<\/span>Report found that\u00a0over\u00a045% of 16-year-olds are showing signs of probable mental ill-health, with young females particularly affected. Worry around academic achievement continues to be one of the biggest pressures facing teenagers, with more than 80% reporting anxiety connected to school performance.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

ASCERT, Northern Ireland\u2019s leading charity working to reduce drug and alcohol-related harm,\u00a0states\u00a0it is increasingly concerned that vaping is becoming normalised among some young people during stressful periods such as exams.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Gary McMichael, Chief Executive of ASCERT, said:<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cExams can be an incredibly demanding time for young\u00a0people\u00a0and many are feeling significant pressure around revision,\u00a0grades\u00a0and future opportunities.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe know that some young people may vape because they believe it helps them manage stress or feel calmer in the short term. However, nicotine can\u00a0actually contribute\u00a0to increased anxiety, difficulty\u00a0sleeping\u00a0and reduced concentration over time.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNicotine\u00a0is highly addictive and regular use can quickly become difficult to manage. At a time when young people need to protect both their physical health and mental wellbeing,\u00a0it\u2019s\u00a0important they are supported to find healthier ways to cope with pressure.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Why Vaping Can Make Exam Stress Worse<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

ASCERT is highlighting several ways nicotine use and vaping may negatively affect young people during revision and exam periods.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Higher Anxiety Levels<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Although vaping may seem to provide temporary relief, nicotine dependence can increase stress, irritability and anxious feelings as cravings return.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Poor Sleep Quality<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Nicotine acts as a stimulant, making it harder to switch off and get quality sleep,\u00a0something that is essential during exams.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Reduced Attention and Focus<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Regular nicotine use can affect concentration and make it more difficult for young people to stay focused while studying.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Increased Risk of Addiction<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Young people can develop nicotine dependency quickly, particularly if vaping becomes linked to managing emotions or stress.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Concerns Around Long-Term Health<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Research into the long-term effects of vaping is still developing, but concerns\u00a0remain\u00a0around impacts on lung health and adolescent brain development.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Positive Ways to Handle Exam Pressure<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

ASCERT is encouraging young people to build healthy habits and routines to help manage stress more effectively throughout exam season.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Keep Physically Active<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Exercise and fresh air can help reduce stress hormones and improve mood, even if it is only a short daily walk.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Pace Revision Sessions<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Breaking study into manageable chunks with regular breaks can help prevent burnout and improve learning.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Maintain Healthy Sleep Habits<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Consistent sleep routines are important for memory,\u00a0concentration\u00a0and emotional wellbeing.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Talk About Stress<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Young people should be encouraged to speak openly with parents, carers,\u00a0teachers\u00a0or trusted friends if they are feeling overwhelmed.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Reduce Reliance on Nicotine and Caffeine<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Both nicotine and excessive caffeine can heighten anxiety and interfere with rest.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Reach Out for Support<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Seeking support early can help prevent stress and anxiety from becoming more difficult to manage.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Gary McMichael added:<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s\u00a0important that young people know they\u00a0don\u2019t\u00a0have to deal with exam pressure alone. Support from parents, schools and trusted adults can make\u00a0a huge difference\u00a0during this time.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBy encouraging healthy coping strategies and early conversations around stress, we can help young people protect their wellbeing and avoid behaviours that may create longer-term difficulties.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

ASCERT Support Services<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

ASCERT delivers free and confidential support services for young people, adults and families across Northern Ireland experiencing issues linked to alcohol, drugs,\u00a0vaping\u00a0and mental health.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Support available includes:<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n