In an effort to be more accessible to at-risk populations, text-based quit vaping programs designed for teenagers are on the rise. These programs are currently aimed at the cessation of cannabis and nicotine, as substantial health risks come along with this form of polysubstance use. While they may not be the best fit for all youth and young adults, these programs show promise in their ability to help dual users abstain from these substances.
Youth vaping, cannabis use, and polysubstance risk
Over the past decade, youth vaping (use of electronic cigarettes) across the globe has skyrocketed. Statistics show that youth who seek out nicotine cessation programs tend to report higher levels of dependence and more frequent nicotine use than those who do not. [1] This allows treatment professionals to assist some of the heaviest youth nicotine consumers.
However, youth cessation programming must also address polysubstance use and risk, as many adolescents use both nicotine and cannabis products. This highlights the importance of dual-focused cessation programs for maximum efficacy.
A new tool for a dual-use problem
New research has explored the efficacy of a dual abstinence program focused on nicotine vaping and cannabis cessation for teens across two trials. Results were measured after 7 months and showed the following changes: [2]
- 25.4% of adolescent participants identified only as e-cigarette users to start, while 18.2% identified only as e-cigarette users after completing the program
- 74.6% of adolescent participants identified as dual users to start, while 35% identified as dual users after completing the program
- 31.7% of adolescents reported being abstinent from both substances after completing the program
This program also included young adult users: [2]
- 40.8% of young adult participants identified exclusively as e-cigarette users to start, while 29.4% identified exclusively as e-cigarette users after completing the program
- 59.2% of young adult participants identified as dual users to start, while 42.2% identified as dual users after completing the program
- 15.6% of young adults reported being abstinent from both substances after completing the program
The quit-vaping text message program and why it works for young people
Quit-vaping text message programs address a range of factors that traditional cessation techniques fail to, including a lack of variety in evaluation and treatment methods, program education having too narrow a reach, and a failure to identify and address population differences in at-risk youth. [3][2]
This combination of factors made it more difficult for young people to engage in cessation programming in the past. The format of text message programs to address vaping caters to a younger, more tech-savvy population while allowing for greater accessibility by economically and geographically disadvantaged individuals.
Other technology-enhanced programs take avenues youth may already utilize, including smartphone apps, social media, mHealth, telehealth, and the internet, each of which is likely to further target and meet this population’s needs. [4][5][6]
Guide for young people: How to use a text program to quit
There are various options when it comes to texting programs for smoking cessation. Youth can take advantage of national or state hotlines or turn to independent programs for assistance.Â
Program enrollment takes place by texting a key phrase (such as ‘QUIT’) to a certain number. This starts the process of daily messages, which are interactive but vary in their content. Messages may offer advice, tips, and words of encouragement, or engage users in activities.
Many programs also provide individualized support for youth who experience an increase in cravings or have just relapsed. If you have specific needs, it’s important to search for a program that meets them. For example, some programs are designed to help veterans, and others offer transitions for those interested in short periods of abstinence prior to full cessation.
Limitations and who needs more than a text program
As with any program, there are limitations to virtual interventions such as text-based cessation programs. Research shows that some individuals specifically seek social support as part of their cessation efforts, meaning text message interventions may be less appealing to them. [3]
In addition, much of the evidence on text message cessation programs involves use with youth and young adults who express a desire to quit vaping. [1] Therefore, there are a lot of unknowns regarding its efficacy and application for youth who are not motivated to quit.
While future developments may address this area, virtual programs currently lack the ability to biochemically verify abstinence, meaning that self-report success rates may be skewed. [2] Other research should take timing (specifically at the start of the year) into account, as many individuals may feel pressured to set personal goals without the intention of achieving them. [7]
Virtual cessation may not be a good fit for those who require high-intensity intervention or the need for verifiable abstinence as part of court-mandated programming.
Evidence-based support for quitting
Text message cessation programs should utilize the most evidence-based strategies to be effective and have the most impact on this population. Therefore, all programs should be comprehensive in their initial phases by thoroughly gauging factors such as someone’s desire, ability, confidence, and readiness to quit, as well as past attempts at quitting and commitment to quitting. [4]
Programs must be created on the basis of cognitive and behavioral strategies, such as role playing, identifying and modifying negative thought patterns, developing coping strategies, growing self-efficacy skills, and establishing social support. [2][7]
To maximize accessibility, these programs should also target youth who are less likely to seek virtual cessation services. This includes individuals from various racial backgrounds, males, those of a lower socioeconomic status, and individuals with lower levels of psychological discomfort and dependence related to substance use. [1]
