• By Hannah Phillips
• Posted Monday, August 18, 2025

Vape-Free Future: Free Teen Program

We're hosting a free, 5-week, evidence-based vaping prevention program for youth in grades 6–12 on Thursdays from Sept. 4–Oct. 2, 6–7:30 p.m., at the Forsyth County Central Library, 660 W. 5th St., Winston-Salem.

Lessons cover health impacts, marketing tactics, coping skills, and refusal strategies. Registration is encouraged and you can register here.

Forsyth County Behavioral Health Services is launching a vaping prevention program for youth in grades 6–12 as e-cigarettes remain the most commonly used tobacco product among U.S. adolescents. In 2024, 1.63 million youth reported current e-cigarette use nationwide, and locally, five 911 calls last month were for vaping-related medical emergencies.

Originally marketed as smoking cessation tools for adults, e-cigarettes have become widely used by youth, driven by flavored products, targeted marketing, and accessibility. The aerosol from vaping devices can contain nicotine and harmful chemicals that affect brain development, mood, learning, and impulse control in adolescents.

The new program will equip participants with the knowledge and skills to make informed choices, resist marketing influences, and manage stress without turning to nicotine. Lessons will address brain and body health, environmental impacts, industry marketing tactics, and healthy coping strategies.

While recent legislation, such as North Carolina’s House Bill 900 restricting most disposable vapes, has contributed to declines in youth vaping, rates remain a public health concern. This program aims to build on that momentum and reach a wide audience, including youth at higher risk of tobacco use.