Understanding and Addressing Your Teen's Use of Nicotine Pouches


A concerned parent discovers that their 16-year-old daughter has been using "snuz," small white pouches popular among young people, particularly as an alternative to smoking. While the parent initially thought it was "just" nicotine, they’re now wondering if it could be something more harmful.

Snus (pronounced "snooze") and similar products like nicotine pouches are smokeless tobacco or nicotine delivery systems. These small pouches are placed between the lip and gum, releasing nicotine directly into the bloodstream. While some are marketed as tobacco-free and contain only nicotine, flavors, and plant fibers, others may include trace amounts of tobacco. It's unlikely these pouches contain anything beyond nicotine, but the risks are still significant.

Nicotine is highly addictive, and products like snus can lead to dependency, especially in teens whose developing brains are more susceptible to addiction. Beyond addiction, nicotine use in adolescence can impair attention, learning, and impulse control. Additionally, the normalization of nicotine use can increase the likelihood of experimenting with other substances later.

It’s good that your daughter felt comfortable mentioning this to you, even if it was indirectly. This gives you an opportunity to address the issue without creating a confrontation. Start by having an open, nonjudgmental conversation to understand her motivation for using these pouches. Is it peer pressure, curiosity, or something else? Express your concerns calmly and provide information about the risks of nicotine use, especially at her age.

Consider setting clear boundaries while also offering support. For example: “I understand you might see this as harmless or a way to fit in, but nicotine can seriously impact your health and brain development. Let’s talk about why you feel the need to use it and find healthier ways to cope or connect with your friends.”

If you suspect the issue might escalate or involve other substances, consulting a pediatrician or counselor who specializes in adolescent behavior can provide additional support.

Resources

  1. Nicotine Addiction: Principles and Management by David Balfour and Marcus Munafò (Amazon)
  2. Talking to Teens About Substance Abuse: What to Say and What Not to Say by Jason R. Kilmer (Amazon)
  3. Nicotine Cravings Relief Kit – A tool designed for those trying to quit nicotine products (Amazon)
  4. Truth Initiative (truthinitiative.org) – Resources for parents and teens on nicotine use and quitting strategies.
  5. The Bridge – A supportive community for parents navigating teen challenges.

Your proactive approach and willingness to address this openly with your daughter are key to helping her make better choices. By staying calm, informed, and supportive, you’re equipping her to navigate these challenges confidently.

#parentingteens #substanceawareness #teenhealth #nicotineawareness #supportforparents #raisingteens #familycommunication #parentingtips #adolescenthealth #teenbehavior #positiveparenting #parentingjourney #teenaddictionprevention #buildingtrust #healthychoices #parentingchallenges #supportforfamilies #teenissues #mentalhealthawareness #emotionalwellbeing #familydynamics #raisingstrongkids #copingwithteens #parentingadvice #teeneducation #substanceuseprevention

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