Why people who have never smoked are getting hooked on vaping

When vaping first became popular at Gracey Mungulu's school, she was against it. She would tell others why they were partaking in the habit. However, Gracey, feeling socially anxious, began vaping herself at 16, despite initially coughing during her first attempt. As more classmates began vaping, Gracey's usage increased until it became a daily habit.

Now 21, she purchases a refillable vape daily, using it whenever her hands are occupied with her hairdressing job or school activities. Gracey is one of over one million non-smokers in the UK who now vape, a number that has been rising annually. Although vaping was initially promoted as a method to help smokers quit cigarettes, the long-term consequences remain unclear.

People like Gracey are drawn to vaping due to its social anxiety-relieving effects and the mindless action of having something to hold and mouth. However, nicotine, present in vapes, is highly addictive and can lead to withdrawal symptoms like irritability and anxiety. GP Dr Helen Wall frequently encounters patients struggling with this psychological dependence.

Malin Andersson, a former Love Island contestant and domestic abuse campaigner, started vaping during a stressful breakup and found the physical action, akin to a dopamine hit, addictive. Despite quitting recently, she regrets the constant presence of her vape in her life. The rise in vaping among non-smokers is largely attributed to the heavy marketing of vapes, which includes appealing colours and sweet flavours.

The UK government is considering new measures to address this issue, including standardised plain packaging and potential restrictions on marketing. While some experts believe vaping may divert people away from a more harmful behaviour, others warn of the potential risks associated with this emerging trend.