Why is it so difficult to kick the vaping habit?

Vaping is quite commonplace these days but behind many clouds of scented vapour lies a complex addiction that can be as strong and stubborn as traditional smoking.

- BY CAMILLA FOSTER

Dr Marc Picot - a GP, founder of Vape Escape and author of The Last Puff - is on a mission to help people break free from this habit.

He explains key reasons why vaping is so hard to give up and shares tips for those ready to quit.

WHAT ARE SOME COMMON SIGNS OF A VAPING ADDICTION?

"There are some general behaviours of a vaping addiction, such as early morning vaping," says Dr Picot. "Many vapers sleep with a vape next to their bed and pick it up first thing in the morning."

Another clear red flag is continuing to do something when you know it's causing you harm, highlights the GP.

"Harm from vaping comes in many ways," explains Dr Picot. "For example, vaping can cause physical harm, such as oral or dental problems. It can also cause psychiatric harms as there's a quite strong association with worsening of mental health, especially in young people.