Why Singapore needs more safe ways out for vape-addicted youth

Counselling over punishment is a good start, but expanding confidential, empathetic care is critical as more cases of addiction emerge.

- Yvette van der Eijk

In March, Minister of State for Health Rahayu Mahzam announced that children reported by their parents for vaping would no longer be fined but instead offered counselling and referred to the Health Promotion Board (HPB).

One early case of self-reporting led to counselling rather than prosecution, signalling a new model that prioritises rehabilitation over retribution.

This approach has immense promise, but success hinges on broad public awareness, trust and system-wide support. Too many parents and youth remain unaware of these safe pathways or fear legal punishment.

Schools and community stakeholders must clearly understand that referrals can and should lead to help. Given the scale and severity of the vaping crisis among youth, how do we build a system of safe pathways that can cater to a large number of affected young people?

SAFE PATHWAYS FORWARD

In the past five years, Singapore has witnessed a worrying rise in youth vaping. This mirrors a global trend where young people are drawn in by social media influencers, appealing flavours, and vape devices designed to resemble sleek tech gadgets.

As vaping products evolve and the target demographic becomes younger and more vulnerable, it is essential that knowledge and regulations evolve alongside. It also calls for a response that goes beyond enforcement — one that meets young people where they are, and supports rather than punishes.

Mainstream smoking cessation programmes, such as HPB's I Quit campaign, may not meet the complex needs of youth battling a vaping addiction alongside mental health or family issues.

Youth-specific addiction services that integrate psychological care, family therapy, academic counselling, and legal or social support are essential.

To build capacity, we need more trained counsellors in schools and community settings, outreach to engage hard-to-reach youth, and peer-led initiatives that speak their language.