Be Smart, Don’t Start

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

Vaping is everywhere. What companies don’t show is how quickly nicotine addiction can affect your mood, stress, focus, sports, and mental health.

These stories are based on real situations teens face every day: pressure, addiction, sports, friendships, stress, and the pressure to fit in. Watch the videos [link to youtube once Marty gets them uploaded]

Ceremonial vs Commercial Tobacco

Ceremonial tobacco is naturally sourced by many American Indian communities for spiritual and ceremonial purposes. Blends may include locally sourced medicinal plants and can differ between tribes and families. The smoke is often viewed as a visual prayer, and participants may not inhale it. Ceremonial tobacco may also be gifted when asking for prayer, guidance, or participation in a ceremony. (Information source: Good Medicine Keepers – Honoring the Sacred Tradition of Tobacco)

Commercial tobacco products are mass-produced and contain high levels of nicotine and other harmful chemicals designed to keep users addicted. Big tobacco companies have historically targeted American Indian communities using cultural imagery and continue targeting youth with flavored products and brightly colored devices designed to appeal to teens.

The Reality About Vaping

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.

40% of American Indian youth in Montana report current vape use
Nearly 1 in 4 Montana high school students report using vapes
99% of American Indian youth who vape say they use flavored products
Daily vaping among Montana youth has increased significantly in recent years

Want to quit? You’re not the only one.

If vaping or nicotine is starting to control your life, support is available. Quitting can be hard, but getting help can make it easier. My Life, My Quit is a free and confidential program designed specifically for teens. You can talk with a coach by text, phone, or online chat to get support without judgment.

Text, call, or chat with someone who gets it. mylifemyquit.com or text “Start My Quit” to 36072

Tribal Nations

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 ten 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.

Contact a Montana American Indian Tobacco Education Specialist

Tobacco Warrior Summit Information