Tip: Vaping isn’t considered safe for teens because their brain is still developing and can expose them to toxic substances and nicotine.

Exposure to nicotine and toxic substances in vaping devices can cause your breathing to become rapid and shallow, as well as increase heart rate and blood pressure.  The vapor can contain volatile organic compounds, flavoring such as diacetyl which is a chemical linked to a serious lung disease and heavy metals such as nickel, tin and lead. Nicotine use can also rewire the brain, which can impact your concentration, learning and impulse control.

Tip of the Week: Misusing prescription drugs can be harmful to your health and impact your participation in sports.

Only take medications that are prescribed to you and follow instructions from the doctor carefully. Prescription drugs and over-the-counter drugs including sleeping pills, anti-anxiety drugs and cough and cold remedies can be harmful to your health if you don’t take the medication as directed. Do not take any medications that are prescribed to someone else, side effects can include nausea, dizziness, loss of appetite or even vision loss.

Members of the community express their thanks to Casco Bay region teens, who are doing their part to keep their community safe and healthy. These times have been particularly difficult for kids as they haven’t been able to attend school, participate in events with their friends, or explore their world in new and exciting ways – all of the things that teens love. Casco Bay CAN Coalition members recognize how strong/resilient youth are and we thank them!

Wishing everyone a safe and healthy 2021!

• Past month nicotine vaping rose dramatically over 3 years
• Past month cannabis vaping increased among non-college young adults in 2019
• Past year cannabis remained at historic highs
• Daily cannabis use was more common among non-college young adults in 2019

View the infographic here.

Social Anxiety, Teens, And A Pandemic

Tip: Being challenged in life is inevitable. Being defeated is optional.

Every time you fail, you move one step closer to succeeding. Embrace failure as part of success and get going. Perseverance will help to overcome challenges; it is easy to become overwhelmed so take it one step at a time.