Module 3:
Sharing the Truth About Nicotine Pouches
Sharing the truth about nicotine pouches means speaking up or taking action to help make a positive change. You can play an important role by helping others learn the facts to make healthy choices.
One way to share the truth about nicotine pouches is to make a Public Service Announcement (PSA)! A PSA is a short message that helps people learn about a problem, understand why it matters, and encourages healthier choices.
You can encourage others to live a tobacco and nicotine-free life by sharing information and leading by example. You can use social media to push back against messages that make nicotine pouches seem harmless or “cool.” You can show others that most teens choose to live nicotine-free.
Here is an example of a PSA created by Say What! youth group about the harms of vaping:
You can also download our guide to help you create your own PSA. Share your PSAs with us by tagging us @TxSayWhat!
HELP AND SUPPORT TO QUIT NICOTINE POUCHES
Quitting nicotine can be challenging, but no one has to do it alone. Having supportive people around can make it easier for people quitting to handle cravings, deal with challenges, and stay motivated.
If someone tells you they use nicotine pouches or if they want to quit, start by listening without judging. You don't need to have all the answers or fix the problem. Simply showing that you care and encouraging them to get help can be a great way to support them.
Here are some examples of what you could say to a friend that is supportive:
Thank you for telling and trusting me. Would you like to talk about it?
It is okay to ask for help and to talk to a counselor. There are even apps and texting programs made to help teens quit.
I care about you, so I wanted to share something I learned about nicotine pouches.
If you ever want help or just want to talk about it more, I am here for you.
When someone quits nicotine, they may experience withdrawal symptoms. They might feel irritated, anxious, restless, or upset. These feelings can make quitting challenging and friends, peer pressure, and social media can sometimes make it harder to quit. The good news is people are more likely to quit if they feel supported.
My Life, My Quit is a free, confidential program designed to help young people quit vaping, smoking, and other tobacco or nicotine products. Participants can receive one-on-one support from a trained coach who can help them understand nicotine addiction, manage their cravings, and create a plan to quit.
WRAPPING UP THE TRUTH ABOUT NICOTINE POUCHES
Understanding how companies advertise their products can help people think more carefully about the messages they see. Advertisements for nicotine pouches are designed to make the product look safe, fun, and appealing while downplaying the risks.
Awareness is a powerful tool when it comes to protecting your health and making informed decisions. By sharing the information you learned from this module, you can empower your friends and your peers to live a healthy life that doesn’t include nicotine pouches, too.
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Home
Say What! EST. 2011
Phone
512.245.8082
Mailing Address
Texas School Safety Center
ATTN: Say What Program
Texas State University
601 University Drive
San Marcos, TX 78666
Say What! was created and designed by young people from across Texas and connects students interested in eliminating tobacco from their schools and communities. The Say What! movement is funded by the Texas Department of State Health Services through a contract with the Texas School Safety Center at Texas State University.