Talking about it might feel tricky, but it’s always a good idea!
Start with information
First make sure you know what you’re talking about.
Get the key facts, learn the basics about vaping products, and think through what you want to say to them. Think about the questions they might ask you, and how you’ll respond.
You might also want to consider which segment the young person belongs to from the Gen Vape work conducted recently in Australia to better understand young people’s current attitudes towards vaping.
Approach it calmly
You might want to start the conversation when you’re doing an activity together, such as:
- during warm ups / cool downs
- before or after training
- in team building/wellbeing activities.
Keep things casual and relaxed. You could use something you saw in a TV show or on the news as a chance to bring up the issue.
Don’t make assumptions
If you think they may have tried vaping, avoid making accusations. Instead, approach them with curiosity.
Avoid judging or lecturing
Listen to their point of view and keep it a two-way conversation. Being mindful to keep your body language and tone respectful can go a long way.
Don’t exaggerate
Make sure you are honest with them about potential harms and avoid exaggerated statements.
Focus on club policy, health and explain your concerns
Focus on how you care about them and want them to be healthy. For example, if they are vaping nicotine you can say that you are concerned about the addictive nature of nicotine and how it can impact on their development and performance.
Encourage self-reflection
Get them to consider the impact vaping is having on them. You could suggest they think about how vaping might be impacting their participation sport and the example they might be setting for younger club members.
Help them quit
If they express some interest in cutting their vaping back, and quitting, then you might want to refer them to Quitline, My QuitBuddy or other local services that are available. You can find options for your local area on the ‘List of Local Support Services’ page within this Resources Kit.