You don’t need vaping to fit in. You’re in control of your decisions.

Why say no to vaping?

Vaping isn’t harmless, no matter what anyone says. The chemicals in vapes, especially nicotine, make vaping a risk to your physical and mental health.  

  • Nicotine is a highly addictive chemical. Once you start vaping, it’s hard to quit. Most vapes and e-juices have nicotine in them– even some that say “nicotine-free” on the label. 
  • Vaping can damage your lungs, worsen your acne or dry skin, and make it harder to focus in school. 
  • Maintaining a vaping addiction is expensive. Save your money for things you actually enjoy.  

You might also notice people using nicotine pouches* (like Zonnic or Zyn) and cannabis (weed) vapes. These are also addictive and harmful to your health.

You have the power to make your own choices—read on for tips to say no to vaping, handle peer pressure, and stay true to yourself around friends who vape.

*Zonnic is the only nicotine pouch approved in Canada. It should only be used by adults to quit smoking.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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You’re not alone in not vaping

You might feel like everyone around you is vaping– you see vapes in the bathroom at school, at the park, and at parties. The good news? More and more people are walking away from vaping. Not because someone told them to but because they’ve seen the truth behind it: it’s not harmless, it’s not “just water vapour,” and it doesn’t make you any cooler.

What to say when someone pressures you to vape

Picture this: you’re hanging out after school and someone hands you a vape, waiting for you to take a hit. Maybe they say something like “It’s not a big deal.”  Or “Just try it once.”

This might catch you off guard and you might not know what to say. Here are some clear and simple ways you can say no to vaping:

  • Nah, I’m good.
  • Not my thing.
  • I don’t like how it makes me feel.
  • I’ve got practice/games/another extracurricular activity, so I’ll pass.
  • I’ll pass, I don’t have money for that.
  • No thanks. I’ve seen what it does to people (trouble breathing, addiction, anxiety, etc.)
Keep your answer simple, firm, and confident. You don’t owe anyone a reason. A simple “No” is enough.
How to avoid vaping in school and social situations

Try to avoid common locations. Don’t follow the crowd to the bathroom or locker room if you know they’re vaping. Head to another one or wait until they’re done.

Bring a buddy. If you have a friend who also says no, stick together. Your friend may be looking for someone to stay with them, too. 

Know your limits. If it’s a party or place where you’ll be pressured, plan ahead with an excuse or bring someone who has your back.

You can walk away. You are in control of your decisions. If someone isn’t respecting your boundaries, walk away. 

If peer pressure becomes bullying

No one has the right to threaten you for making a healthy choice. If someone is making you feel unsafe or is bullying you for not vaping, here’s what to do:

  • Stand tall and confident: Don’t engage if they’re just trying to provoke you; bullies back off when they see you’re not an easy target.
  • Walk away: Go to a space where you can’t be followed and tell someone you trust. It’s not snitching — it’s self-respect.
  • Speak up: If someone threatens you or makes you feel unsafe physically or emotionally, tell a teacher, school staff, coach, or your parents so they can address it.
  • Find support: Reach out to Kids Help Phone or Foundry BC for free, judgment-free help.
If someone stops treating you like a friend because you don’t vape, maybe they’re not a real friend.
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Keeping friends who vape

Do some of your friends vape? You don’t have to stop hanging out with them, but you can set boundaries. 

If they’re pressuring you to vape, remember you can say no. A real friend will respect your decisions. Try saying:

  • “You do you, but I’m good without it.”
  • “That’s your choice—just not around me.”
  • “I respect your decision, so respect mine.”

You can also change the vibe by switching the subject or suggesting something else to do:

  • “Nah, I’m hungry—let’s grab pizza.”
  • “Let’s play some video games instead.”

And if a friend ever decides they want to quit, let them know:
 “If you ever want to stop, I’ve got your back.”

Support those who smoke or vape

If someone you care about is using nicotine products, learn how to support them by visiting our Supporting Loved Ones page. Remember to approach any conversations about quitting from a compassionate and non-judgmental place.

If your friend vapes and is looking for support to quit, share our mini site with them. The site is full of tips and tricks to help them ditch their vape for good.

Set a strong foundation to your wellbeing

People may turn to vaping as a way to cope with stress, but there are better ways to take care of your wellbeing.

Surround yourself with people who lift you up. Spend time with friends who respect your choices and encourage healthy habits.

Get in regular movement. Do you enjoy sports, fitness classes, or dancing? What about walking outside for some fresh air? Moving your body can boost your mood and relieve stress.

Find a creative outlet. How do you like to express yourself? Try drawing, journalling, or playing music to unwind.

Practice mindfulness. Take a moment to notice your thoughts, feelings, and body when you are stressed. Deep breathing exercises, positive affirmations, and meditation are some ways to recentre yourself.

Learn more about the mental health impacts of vaping and find mental health supports here.

/vape-free-quitting/vaping-mental-health
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Who you are and what you think matters

You’re allowed to care about your health. 

You’re allowed to feel uncomfortable when others vape around you. 

You’re allowed to say no, even if no one else does. 

That’s not weakness. That’s confidence.

Staying vape-free doesn’t mean giving up fun, friends, or freedom. It means you’re thinking for yourself and that’s always worth more.

Whether you’re saying no, setting boundaries, or just figuring things out, your choices matter. It’s never too early—or too late—to protect your health and take care of yourself.

If you have more questions or need advice, chat with one of our Quit coaches. 

Access live chat here

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