A day in the life: An ecological momentary assessment of people’s experiences with vaping

Objective Curbing the use of vapes among young people is a public health priority. Understanding people’s vaping experiences and the contextual factors influencing use is key to informing effective behavioural interventions. Using ecological momentary assessment, this study aimed to explore the daily vaping-related experiences of young Australians who vape. Methods Australians aged 14- to 39-years who use vapes (n=72; 54% men; 42% 14–17 years, 13% 18–24 years, 46% 25–39 years) were recruited via social media and personal networks. Using an app-based diary, participants shared vaping-related experiences over a 7-day period. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Results Commonalities across diaries enabled the construction of ‘a day in the life’ from which three main themes were identified: (1) vaping is an integrated part of daily routine; (2) preoccupation with vaping causes disruption, distress and shame; and (3) vaping is perceived as a therapeutic tool for stress relief and self-care. Conclusions Among those who vape, the behaviour has become embedded in day-to-day routines and is a vital, yet disruptive, part of life. Implications for Public Health Communicating the insidiousness of vaping dependence and addiction is critical to increasing awareness of vaping-related harms and challenging industry-perpetuated narratives that nicotine is harmless.