Heather Hansen, a Health Education Specialist from Eastern Idaho Public Health, came and presented a very educational assembly for our high school students and then another assembly for 5th-8th grade students. She spoke about the dangers of vaping and how addictive it is.
Vaping is more widespread in our own schools, community, and nation than most people realize. E-cigarettes (vapes) are generally easier to get, but harder to detect than regular cigarettes. We are hoping by opening this conversation with parents, we can join together to help educate our young people that vaping is not just "flavored water vapor." It is a highly addictive substance that is filled with nicotine and other chemicals.
Thank you to the two parents who came to the assembly. We are planning to continue our outreach to students and parents by providing more opportunities to learn about the harmful effects of vaping. As the educational institution of this community, we strive to prevent substance abuse and help substance abusers, but we can't do it alone. We need the help of parents and community members.
We have put together a page on our website with links to short informational videos sent to us by Heather at EIPH: https://www.wjsd.org/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=1682134...
Here is a list of different resources to help people quit using tobacco, including e-cigarettes/vapes:
FREE APPS TO DOWNLOAD:
- "This is Quitting" app
- "quitSTART" app
- "Smokefree TXT" app
TEXT OR LIVE CHAT:
My Life, My Quit™ is a FREE and confidential way to quit smoking or vaping. Text "Start My Quit" to 36072 or click to chat with a Coach: https://id.mylifemyquit.org/index
PHONE AND ONLINE COACHING:
Project Filter offers FREE quit coaching over the phone with additional support through e-mail and chat. These services offer counseling and support with an experienced coach to help you create a quit plan.
IN-PERSON CLASSES:
Eastern Idaho Public Health offers FREE classes to help individuals stop smoking, chewing, and vaping.
EIPH offers:
- Adult cessation classes in-person or virtually
- Youth cessation classes with an emphasis on quitting e-cigarettes/vaping
For more information on in-person class locations and availability, please contact Heather at hhansen@eiph.idaho.gov or 208-533-3158.