Be Smart, Don’t Start

Real stories about vaping, nicotine addiction, peer pressure, and the choices that can change everything.

Meet four Montana teens who chose their own path. Hear how they handled peer pressure, vaping, and the decisions that shaped their future.

    The reality about vaping

     

    • American Indian youth

      in Montana don’t vape

    • Montana high school students

      don’t vape

    • American Indian youth

      who vape say they use flavored products

    • among Montana youth

      has increased significantly in recent years

      Most teens don’t start vaping expecting to get addicted.

      But nicotine can affect focus, mood, sports performance, stress, sleep and mental health. And quitting can be harder than people think.

      Two Very Different Things

      Ceremonial Tobacco

      • Naturally sourced for spiritual and ceremonial purposes
      • Often includes local medicinal plants and is offered as a prayer
      • The smoke is a visual prayer and participants may not inhale it
      • May be gifted when asking for prayer, guidance, or participation

       

      Commercial Tobacco

      • Mass-produced and engineered to create addiction
      • Contains high levels of nicotine and other harmful chemicals
      • Big Tobacco targets American Indian communities and youth with flavored products and colorful devices

      • You don't have to do it alone

        If vaping or nicotine is starting to control your life, support is available. My Life, My Quit is a free and confidential program designed specifically for teens.

      • Text, call, or chat with someone who gets it.

        Quitting can be hard, but getting help can make it easier. Text “Start My Quit” to 36072 or click to chat with a Coach.

        HONORING TRADITION.
        PROTECTING FUTURE GENERATIONS.

        MT American Indian Tobacco Education Specialists (MAITES) vision is to honor ceremonial tobacco through empowering communities with culturally relevant education. This collaborative group is made up of 10 Tribal Tobacco Education Specialists (TES) – eight in tribal health departments and two in Urban Indian Centers located in Billings and Missoula. MAITES group members work together to plan culturally appropriate events and campaigns.

        Connect with a MAITES SpecialistLearn about the Tobacco Warrior Summit