While the message about the dangers of cigarettes seems to be getting across to the next generation, there appears to be an alarming new threat – vaping.
In response to a growing concern about vaping among young people, Castlemaine Library is hosting a community information night on August 18.
This free information session is an extra pop-up session as part of the ‘Parenting in the Modern World’ series and will bring together a panel of experts to discuss vaping; its health harms, legal implications and how to support our young people.
Panel experts include community health nurse Bron Grieve, Leading Senior Constable Wayne Cairnes and a representative from Castlemaine Secondary College.
The discussion will be facilitated by Mount Alexander Shire Council youth development officer Shannon Lacy.
Parents and carers can hope to gain a better understanding of what vaping is, why our youth are doing it, and what the health risks are.
Castlemaine Library manager Jess Saunders said they’d organised this session in response to hearing from both primary school and secondary school staff and families that this was becoming a growing concern.
“The library prioritises health literacy and communication, and this session will be vital to understanding what we can do as a community with these concerns,” Jess said.
Community health nurse Bron Grieve said many young people believed that vaping was safe; that it was just water vapour.
“In fact, 38 chemicals contained are listed as poisons on the Australian Poisons standard,” Bron said.
“Research tells us that while the adverse health effects of vaping are still largely unknown, it is evident that vaping is becoming a major health concern.
“This is not just a local issue, the same trends are being seen across the country; vape usage has doubled in our youth in the past 12 months.”
Vaping – A Community Information Night will be held on Thursday August 18 from 5.30-7pm at Castlemaine Library in Mechanics Lane. This is a free event but bookings are required and can be made at www.goldfieldslibraries.com
Talking to Tweens and Teens
Local parents are also urged to book for the next instalment of the Parenting in the Modern World series ‘Talking to Tweens and Teens’ will be held at the Castlemaine Library on Thursday August 25 from 5.30pm-7.30pm.
Touching on topics that most parents can relate to, this session will share information and tips on communicating, negotiating the world of porn, media and technology, and talking about sex with teens. Also included are surprising current statistics, Q&A and refreshments.
For parents and carers of young people aged 10-18 years.
The session will be presented by community health nurse Bron Grieve, in partnership with Mount Alexander Shire Council.
