Youth-led solutions to reduce vaping harm in Geelong

Young people in Greater Geelong are demonstrating the power of peer-led prevention to help shape innovative responses to reducing vaping harm.

The Geelong Preventative Health Survey shows that vaping has increased significantly over the past 3 years, especially in young people, with 9 per cent of people aged 15 to 34 engaging in smoking or vaping. Nearly 40 per cent also report experiencing psychological distress, which indicates a need for mental health promotion strategies.

In response, the project brought together Headspace, Read the Play, the City of Greater Geelong Youth Advisory Group, Surf Coast College and Meli Community to support youth-led solutions. These agencies worked with young people to create co-designed resources to help resist or quit vaping.

Posters and other campaign materials have been developed to support peer conversations about vaping and seeking help. The resources promote youth-specific mental health coping strategies and links to local health and support services.

The program has been rolled out across 13 secondary schools, with early feedback showing promising change. One in five students reported that engaging in conversations about vaping and mental health is an important step in shifting social norms.

For more information, see the Barwon Health website.

This story was prepared by: Barwon Health