vaping and mental health effects scaled
Written by: THE BALANCE
Medically reviewed by Dr. Sarah Boss, MD
Last updated: January 19, 2026
Fact checked
Quick Summary
  • It's essential to identify the link between vaping and mental health and have a proactive approach to dealing with it.
  • That being said, in this section, we will explore how vaping can affect your mental health and which mental health issues are prevalent in people who vape.
  • The Mechanisms By Which Vaping Affects Mental Health Vaping involves inhaling and exhaling aerosol produced by an e-cigarette or similar device.
Reading time: 10 min

Vaping has become increasingly popular in recent years, with a significant rise in usage among young adults and teenagers. While many individuals view e-cigarettes as a safer alternative to traditional smoking, emerging research suggests that vaping can have significant impacts on mental health. Studies have shown that individuals who vape are at an increased risk of developing mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. 

Additionally, the chemicals in e-cigarettes can alter brain chemistry and impact cognitive function, particularly in developing brains. 

Continue reading as we explore the short-term and long-term effects of vaping on mental health and common mental health issues associated with vaping and e-cigarettes to help you make informed decisions about e-cigarette use.

Vaping can have significant impacts on mental health. It’s essential to identify the link between vaping and mental health and have a proactive approach to dealing with it. That being said, in this section, we will explore how vaping can affect your mental health and which mental health issues are prevalent in people who vape.

The Mechanisms By Which Vaping Affects Mental Health

Vaping involves inhaling and exhaling aerosol produced by an e-cigarette or similar device. The aerosol contains a mixture of chemicals, including nicotine, which is highly addictive [1]. Nicotine affects the brain’s reward centers, releasing dopamine, which is responsible for feelings of pleasure [2]. This is why vaping can be addictive, and individuals who vape can experience withdrawal symptoms when they try to quit [1].

Vaping can also affect mental health by altering brain function. The nicotine in e-cigarettes can interfere with the development of the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for decision-making, impulse control, and other cognitive functions. This can lead to difficulty with decision-making and impulsivity.

Mental Health Issues Associated with Vaping

According to research, people who vape are at an increased risk of developing mental health issues such as anxiety and depression [3]. In one study, researchers found that young adults who vaped were more likely to experience symptoms of depression and anxiety than those who did not [4].

Additionally, vaping has been linked to an increased risk of substance abuse and dependence [2]. The use of e-cigarettes may lead to the use of other substances, such as marijuana or alcohol, which can further exacerbate mental health issues.

Who is at Risk of Mental Health Issues from Vaping?

Young people are particularly vulnerable to the negative effects of vaping on mental health. The prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for decision-making and impulse control, still develops during adolescence and young adulthood. Exposure to nicotine during this time can interfere with the development of this important brain region [4]. This can lead to difficulty with decision-making and impulsivity, which can increase the risk of developing mental health issues.

Individuals with preexisting mental health conditions may also be at an increased risk of experiencing negative effects from vaping [1]. Nicotine can worsen symptoms of anxiety and depression, leading to increased severity of these conditions.

Vaping has become a popular alternative to smoking cigarettes, with many people turning to e-cigarettes as a perceived safer option. However, there is still much debate over the short-term and long-term effects of vaping. Here we will discuss some of the short-term and long-term effects of vaping.

Short Term Effects

Nicotine addiction 

Nicotine is the primary addictive substance in e-cigarettes. When inhaled, nicotine travels to the brain, where it triggers the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that can create feelings of pleasure and reward. This can lead to addiction, even after just a few uses of an e-cigarette [1].

Respiratory irritation 

E-cigarettes can cause respiratory irritation, such as coughing, throat irritation, and shortness of breath. This can be caused by the chemicals and flavourings used in e-cigarettes, as well as nicotine [3].

Increased heart rate and blood pressure 

Nicotine in e-cigarettes can cause a short-term increase in heart rate and blood pressure, which can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. This effect is especially pronounced in people who are not regular nicotine users [4].

Mouth irritation 

E-cigarettes can cause mouth irritation, including dry mouth, sore throat, and gum irritation. This can be caused by the chemicals and flavourings used in e-cigarettes [1].

Dizziness and nausea 

Nicotine can cause dizziness and nausea, especially in people who are not regular nicotine users. This can be a short-term effect of vaping [2].

Long Term Effects

Lung damage 

The long-term effects of e-cigarette use on lung health are still not fully understood, but some studies have suggested that e-cigarette use may lead to lung damage and chronic lung disease [1].

Increased risk of heart disease 

The nicotine and chemicals in e-cigarettes can damage the heart and blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart disease [5].

Mental health problems 

Studies have shown that e-cigarette use is associated with an increased risk of depression and anxiety, especially in young people [1].

Decreased immune function 

E-cigarette use has been shown to decrease immune function, making the body more vulnerable to infections and illnesses [4].

Addiction 

Like traditional cigarettes, e-cigarettes are highly addictive due to their nicotine content. This can lead to long-term addiction and dependence [1].

Vaping is a popular trend among young people, but it can have negative effects on mental health. One such effect is the potential to cause anxiety. Here will explore whether vaping can cause anxiety and what factors contribute to this.

The Link Between Vaping and Anxiety

According to research, vaping can cause anxiety in some individuals. The nicotine in e-cigarettes is highly addictive and can affect brain function [1]. When individuals vape, they inhale nicotine, which can lead to feelings of stress and anxiety [2]. Nicotine can also worsen symptoms of anxiety in individuals who already have an anxiety disorder [1].

In addition to nicotine, the chemicals in e-cigarette aerosol can also contribute to anxiety [3]. These chemicals can irritate the lungs and cause respiratory problems, which can lead to feelings of anxiety and panic [2].

Furthermore, vaping can also lead to social anxiety, particularly in social situations where vaping is not allowed [4]. The fear of being caught and the anxiety of not being able to vape can lead to increased levels of stress and anxiety.

Factors That Contribute to Vaping-Induced Anxiety

Several factors contribute to the potential for vaping to cause anxiety. One factor is the amount of nicotine in e-cigarettes. Individuals who vape high concentrations of nicotine are more likely to experience anxiety and other negative effects on mental health [4].

Another factor is the frequency of vaping. Individuals who vape frequently are more likely to experience negative effects on mental health, including anxiety [1]. The duration of vaping also plays a role, with individuals who have been vaping for longer periods being more likely to experience negative effects [3].

Individuals with a history of anxiety or other mental health issues may also be at an increased risk of experiencing anxiety from vaping [1]. It is important to note that anxiety is a complex condition, and multiple factors contribute to its development. While vaping can be a contributing factor, it is not the sole cause of anxiety.

Depression is a common mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in daily activities [3]. It can affect anyone at any age and can interfere with daily functioning and quality of life.

Can Vaping Cause Depression?

Research suggests that vaping can contribute to the development of depression [1]. Nicotine, which is present in e-cigarettes, can lead to changes in brain chemistry that affect mood and mental health [4]. Nicotine affects the reward centers of the brain, leading to a release of dopamine, which is responsible for feelings of pleasure [3]. However, this can also lead to a decrease in dopamine levels over time, which can contribute to feelings of depression [4].

Additionally, vaping can lead to the development of other mental health issues, such as anxiety and substance abuse, which can also contribute to the development of depression [2].

The Link Between Vaping And Depression

Several studies have found a link between vaping and depression. In one study, researchers found that young adults who vaped were more likely to experience symptoms of depression and anxiety than those who did not [4]. Another study found that individuals who vaped had higher rates of depression than those who did not [1].

Why Are Young People Particularly Vulnerable?

Young people are particularly vulnerable to the negative effects of vaping on mental health. The prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for decision-making and impulse control, still develops during adolescence and young adulthood [4]. Exposure to nicotine during this time can interfere with the development of this important brain region, leading to difficulty with decision-making and impulsivity, which can increase the risk of developing mental health issues such as depression [4].

Vaping can have significant impacts on mental health, both in the short term and the long term. Nicotine, a highly addictive substance found in many e-cigarettes, can lead to physical and psychological dependence, worsen symptoms of pre-existing mental health disorders, and contribute to the development of new mental health issues. 

Additionally, the chemicals in e-cigarettes can alter brain chemistry and impact cognitive function, particularly in developing brains. 

It is important for individuals to be aware of these potential risks and to make informed decisions about their use of e-cigarettes. For those struggling with mental health issues, seeking evidence-based treatments and therapies is crucial. 

Overall, prioritizing mental health and making informed choices about e-cigarette use can help promote overall wellness and reduce the risks associated with vaping.

1. Newport Institute. The Link Between Vaping and Mental Health. https://www.newportinstitute.com/resources/co-occurring-disorders/vaping-and-mental-health/

2. Truth Initiative. 3 ways vaping affects mental health. https://truthinitiative.org/research-resources/targeted-communities/3-ways-vaping-affects-mental-health

3. Change To Hill. Mental Health & Vaping.

4. National Library Of Medicine. Vaping and Mental Health. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7837520/

5. News Room. Depression & anxiety symptoms linked to vaping nicotine and THC in teens and young adults. https://newsroom.heart.org/news/depression-anxiety-symptoms-linked-to-vaping-nicotine-and-thc-in-teens-and-young-adults

FAQs

How Does Vaping Affect Teenagers And Young Adults?
Vaping can affect the developing brains of teenagers and young adults by altering brain chemistry and impacting cognitive function. Nicotine exposure during adolescence has been linked to negative effects on brain development, including changes in attention, learning, and memory.
Can Vaping Cause Psychosis?
Although rare, there have been reports of individuals experiencing symptoms of psychosis after vaping. These symptoms may be caused by the high levels of THC, a psychoactive compound found in some e-cigarettes, or other chemicals in the products.
Can Quitting Vaping Improve Mental Health?
Yes, quitting vaping can improve mental health. Research suggests that stopping the use of e-cigarettes can lead to improvements in mood, anxiety, and other mental health symptoms. It may also reduce the risk of developing mental health disorders in the future.

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