NOn is only a fashion or a passenger vice: the smoke among teenagers – both in the form of electronic cigarettes and traditional tobacco products – is linked to a significant increase in the symptoms of Anxiety and depression. To launch the alarm is one Research published on Plos Mental Health, Guided by Noor Abdulhay of West Virginia University together with a team of experts. The investigation, which involved over 60,000 American students between 2021 and 2023, underlines how nicotine consumption habits are closely related to a growing psychological discomfort among the youngest.
Smoke and teenagers: research on over 60,000 students
The study was based on National Youth Tobacco Surveywhich collected data between 2021 and 2023 from 60,072 children between middle and high schools. 21.37% of students said they had used tobacco -based products: among these, 9.94% used only electronic cigarettes, 3.61% conventional products such as cigarettes or hookahs, while 7.80% used both.
Among the teenagers involved, One in four showed depressive symptoms And Almost one in three reported states of anxiety. The risk increases significantly between those who use nicotine, in particular among those who use Both electronic cigarettes and traditional products. In this group, the risk of suffering from mental problems is almost double compared to peers who do not smoke.
Anxiety and depression: what is the impact of smoking on the brain of teenagers
“Understanding the interaction between tobacco consumption in teenagers and mental health is particularly important, since adolescence is a critical development period during which many health risk behaviors begin,” explains Abdulhay. At this delicate phase, The brain is still in full development and it turns out particularly vulnerable to the effects of nicotine and other substances contained in smoking productswhich can alter the neural circuits related to mood and emotional well -being. A worrying context, especially considering that In the United States, rates of anxiety, depression and suicide among young people are increasing.
Electronic cigarettes and youth psychological distress
Although the widespread perception that e-cigarettes are “less dangerous”, the study reveals that even those who use them exclusively exhibitions an increased risk of psychological distress. Nicotine addiction, in all its forms, seems to have concrete impacts on emotional well -being teenagers, affecting mood, stress and ability to face daily challenges.
Smoke and anxiety: targeted interventions are needed
“The results of this study showed that all forms of tobacco consumption were significantly associated with mental health problems,” concludes researchers. “It is necessary to continue to promote support for mental health and implement tailor -made interventions to combat all forms of tobacco consumption among teenagers”. Prevention starts from one correct information, from psychological support in schools and effective educational policies.
Education against smoking for the health of young people
In an era in which youth mental health is under pressure, Educating the boys on the risks of smoking – also in electronic form – it is more urgent than ever. Treating one’s emotional balance also means make aware choicesand stopping (or not starting) to smoke is one of the most important.
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