COVID-19 related changes in signs of anxiety and electronic cigarette use among adolescents in Greece

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly altered many aspects of daily life, including mental health and substance use. This study focuses specifically on anxiety symptoms and e-cigarette use, as these are two crucial areas of concern for the well-being of adolescents. This study employed a descriptive cross-sectional design and applied validated measures to collect data from a sample of Greek adolescents. Furthermore, potential demographic factors related to these results were investigated. Preliminary findings indicate that COVID-19 pandemic had had a major effect on adolescents anxiety symptoms, but research is limited among adolescents living in Greece. Social isolation, routine disruption, academic uncertainty, and fear of the virus may all contribute to elevated anxiety levels. In addition, there is a growing concern that adolescents seeking coping mechanisms or engagement during stressful situations may turn to e-cigarette use. The study also examined potential associations between anxiety symptoms and electronic cigarette use. It investigated whether increased e-cigarette use as a form of self-medication or stress relief is associated with elevated anxiety levels. The study’s hypothesis were not supported by the findings; however anxiety and vaping scores were significantly elevated among adolescents. The implications of the study’s findings in the context of public health and policy considerations are discussed. The results are intended to shed light on the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health and substance use behaviors of adolescents, specifically in relation to anxiety symptoms and e-cigarette use.