Occupational Therapy’s Role in Vaping / E-cigarette Cessation

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Update - 10/20/2019
33 deaths have been confirmed in 24 states, up from 18 in the previous CDC announcement.
Contents Hide
1 Facts
2 Occupational Therapy’s Role in Vaping Cessation
3 Apps to Quit Vaping

Facts

  • 4 days ago, on 10/3/2019, the CDC released on their front page titled, “Outbreak of Lung Injury Associated with E-Cigarette Use, or Vaping”.
  • Many agencies and researchers including the CDC are investigating the health effects of vaping.
  • 18 deaths related to vaping have been confirmed in 15 states.
  • Most users reported vaping with products containing THC.
  • There is still a lot we do not know, including the specifics of the chemical exposures causing injuries to the lungs.
  • CDC recommendation: refrain from using e-cigarette, or vaping, products, particularly those containing THC.

Occupational Therapy’s Role in Vaping Cessation

  • Similar to Lifestyle Redesign for smoking cessation.

OTs can help you to:

  • Identify and manage emotional, physical, social triggers.
  • Modify the home, work, social environment to decrease temptations to vaping.
  • Create a plan for cravings and relapses, and be held accountable.
  • Learn about and practice cognitive strategies (mindfulness, CBT).
  • Adjust daily routines to support engagement in alternative healthy activities including work, rest, exercise, leisure.
  • Learn about and practice stress management and relaxation strategies.
  • Obtain resources including support groups to improve your chances of success.

Apps to Quit Vaping

  • Youth and young adults can access the new e-cigarette quit program by texting “DITCHJUUL” to 88709. Parents and other adults looking to help young people quit should text “QUIT” to (202) 899-7550.
  • Vaping cessation program and app  – 2morrowinc

Sources

https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_information/e-cigarettes/severe-lung-disease.html