You're probably here because you vape, or smoke or maybe both – no judgement. But deep down, you know the nicotine grip has got to go.
If it feels like your vape has you trapped, you've come to the right place to break free for good.
Vape. Feel good. Crave it again. That's nicotine messing with your brain.
Every hit gives you a dopamine kick – the “feel-good” chemical. Do it enough, and your brain starts relying on it just to feel normal. That's addiction.
But here's the flip: you can take back control. Change up your routines, learn your triggers, and start cutting down those automatic “reach for the vape” moments.
You've got this – and there's support to help you do it.
Helpful tips? I'm glad you asked:
Man, isn't your head just killing you? It could be your vape tbh. Research has shown that you're pretty likely to get headaches from your vape, or even a migraine.
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While it might be nice when you're hitting the vape, vaping can mess up your moods. So your highs will be higher (and shorter) and your lows will be lower (and longer).
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Do you worry a lot? You may think your vape is helping - but it's pretty much the exact opposite.
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Vapes give you that on-edge feeling because of nicotine addiction making your body crave more.
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Lying in bed staring up at the ceiling? Just can't get to sleep? Nicotine in vapes has been shown to knock your sleep around a fair bit.
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The nicotine in vapes wires your brain to want them, and the longer you vape, the more you want them until you can only think about your next vape. Nicotine is one of the most addictive drugs in the world, you're almost guaranteed to become addicted to vapes very quickly.
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While it's probably not something you're thinking about right now, research suggests vaping can affect your ability to have a child and can affect your unborn child.
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Have you ever seen those photos of twins where one has smoked for 20 years and one hasn't? Vaping is basically the same, it'll age your skin = more wrinkles.
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You clean your teeth right? Well chances are it's not enough, because if you vape your chance of getting cavities may increase.
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If you've got a dry mouth, it probably comes with real nasty breath, and no matter how much you clean your teeth it's still there, right?
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Quitting vaping isn't just about ditching the device – your brain needs time to catch up too.
The first week or two can be rough. Physically, your body starts to calm down as it gets used to life without nicotine. But the mental cravings? Those can stick around longer while your brain figures out a new “normal.”
Withdrawal symptoms can be uncomfortable, but they're actually a sign your body is healing. And remember: slipping up is totally normal. Most people need a few tries before they quit for good. Each attempt teaches you something new about what works – and what doesn't.
You've got this. Every step counts.
You don't have to quit alone. There are heaps of people out there who know their stuff and can help you get started – or just point you in the right direction.
A great first step? Chat with your GP or regular doctor – they can give you advice and support that actually works.
You can also hit up the Quitline: call 137 848.
It's completely confidential, and you'll chat with people who are trained in how to help you quit nicotine
South Australia has stepped up the rules around vaping and illegal tobacco products. Here’s what’s new:
More information on South Australia’s laws can be found here.
It's seriously scary* how much nicotine your vape has in it, and what you’re letting in.
Work out how much nicotine here.
PUFFS = mg
*Nicotine is one of the most addictive poisons. As little as 5mg (25 puffs) can start an addiction.
BEWARE: Use as a guide only, the actual amount of nicotine you let in may be much MUCH higher…
Every vape is different but any level of nicotine is toxic. While vaping, if you've ever felt sick, dizzy, edgy, coughed or your heart rate or breathing changed, you’ve been poisoned by nicotine.
