Summary
CATCH My Breath is an evidence-based youth vaping prevention program for grades 5-12 that has been proven to substantially reduce students’ likelihood of vaping. The vape education program’s effectiveness was published in a peer-reviewed journal and the program is listed in SAMHSA’s Evidence-Based Resource Guide Series.
Program-specific outcomes:
- Decreased substance use (e-cigarettes)
- Increased student knowledge of health and risk (e-cig)
- Improved perception of substance free lifestyle (e-cig)
Strategies supporting educational equity (CASEL)
Not available at this time.
Implementation
Below are key implementation details for this program. These specifications help determine if the program is a good fit for your school or organization.
Grade(s)
Elementary (K-5), Middle (6-8), High School (9-12)
Setting
Classroom, Home
Language
English, Spanish
Cost
Free for US Schools
# Lessons
4
Program Design
Tier 1 (Universal)
Technology Requirements
Screen/computer needed for PowerPoints
Staffing Requirements
No additional staffing required
Professional Development
Virtual Train the Trainer
Evidence of Effectiveness
A peer-reviewed study of CATCH My Breath found that students in schools that implemented the program were half as likely to experiment with e-cigarettes over the following 16 months, compared with those in schools that did not receive the program. The publication of the findings in Public Health Reports – the official journal of the U.S. Surgeon General – makes CATCH My Breath recognized as an evidence-based youth vaping prevention program. The study also found the program increased student knowledge of vaping dangers and positive perceptions about choosing a vape-free lifestyle.
Published Studies
Kelder SH, Mantey DS, Van Dusen D, Case K, Haas A, Springer AE. A Middle School Program to Prevent E-Cigarette Use: A Pilot Study of “CATCH My Breath”. Public Health Reports®. 2020;135(2):220-229. doi:10.1177/0033354919900887