Almost every health professional agrees that the vaping, smoking, and substance abusing epidemic in our youth is a disaster waiting to strike. One of the main points we face is that many teens believe vaping can help anxiety. While it can relieve some temporarily, the long term effects involve a significant increase in anxiety--among other issues. In this short blog, I'll go over why you should play Minecraft instead of using substances.

Sources are at the bottom and have been fact checked.

The Anxiety Issue
While vaping can cause long-term mental health complications, Minecraft can provide entertainment and connection. Some people vape to fit in with their crowd. Bonding via Minecraft and other engaging hobbies has proven far more effective. You'll meet new friends playing Minecraft and maybe reconnect with old ones. It is a timeless game for a reason! Making connections has proven to help with anxiety and depression. Don't make friends while making health issues. Make friends while making an epic base!

Your Health
Sitting around and gaming isn't good for your health if that is all you do. It can be easily rectified with an occassional walk or intense workout, though. Smoking and vaping are different. No matter how much you work out or eat right, tobacco products and other similar substances will eventually cause your body harm. COPD is one of the worst conditions to see a loved one suffer from, in my experience. Smoking and vaping can lead to COPD. Don't put your loved ones through that.

Others Around You
Nothing is better than having something you're proud of. Minecraft allows players to create wonderful builds, interesting datapacks, and more. What will you be proud of when it comes to vaping? Are you working towards a goal you find passion for? Probably not. Someone out there is worried for both your physical and mental health. Someone out there wants to see what you're proud of. Make something worth showing. Be someone worth knowing. Second-hand smoke is no joke. That rhymed. Wowzers.

No one is forcing you to quit or to not start, but we (I) encourage you to stay clean or get clean. Minecraft good, vaping bad. Easy enough. I hope you have a great day! Take care.

https://www.serenitygrove.com/news/does-vaping-cause-anxiety/
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21162-vaping
https://www.webmd.com/balance/features/how-to-make-new-friends - vaping isn't up here lol