Lola Young Says ‘Breathing Feels Like a Chore’ After Years of Vaping: ‘My Lungs Feel Battery Powered’

Lola Young, the rising British musician known for her hit song “Messy,” recently opened up about the toll vaping has taken on her health. In a candid TikTok video shared on 30 September, the 25-year-old singer shared that she had previously disregarded warnings regarding the harmful effects of vaping. However, she is now beginning to experience these consequences firsthand.

Reflecting on advice she once received, Young said, “Somebody once said to me, ‘Lola, there will be a day when you wake up, you’ll be 25 or 26, from a deep sleep and you’ll start to feel the effects of vaping.’ And do you know what I said? I said ‘nah’ and rolled my eyes.” Unfortunately, it seems the day has arrived, as Young described feeling as though her lungs were “battery powered,” making the simple act of breathing feel laborious.

This alarming revelation comes at a time when Young is balancing her career alongside personal health challenges. She jokingly commented that if breathing has become such a struggle, she ought to be compensated for it at a rate of £30 an hour. Furthermore, when asked if she would consider quitting vaping, she responded, “I’ll try to quit when I’m 45,” indicative of her current acceptance of the habit despite its adverse effects.

Young has been candid about her health journey in the past, particularly following an incident in September 2025 where she collapsed during a performance at the All Things Go Music Festival in New York City. Months later, the singer discussed her recovery with The Times, mentioning that she was feeling significantly better. “I mean drugs recovery, yes,” she clarified in a March interview, emphasising that her recovery was not solely drug-related but very much included it.

The musician has openly spoken about her struggles with addiction, notably revealing her past with cocaine. Reports indicate that she has undergone rehab treatment on two separate occasions. Her third studio album, titled “I’m Only F**king Myself,” was recorded following a five-week rehabilitation programme conducted at the end of 2024. In an interview, she revealed her struggle with mental health issues as well, describing a tumultuous period of her life.

Young’s collapse at the music festival became a pivotal moment for her, serving as a wake-up call. In an interview with Rolling Stone, she expressed gratitude for the experience, stating, “It was, what do you call that? Like a breaking point, which allowed me to then be able to be here today, allowed me to be better for my fans, better for the future, and better for myself.”

The singer’s openness about her health challenges has resonated with many of her fans, as it sheds light on the often unspoken struggles that come with fame and public life. Young has become a voice for those experiencing similar issues, demonstrating that vulnerabilities can be transformative rather than shameful.

As conversations around the impact of vaping gain momentum, especially among young people, Young’s reflections serve as a crucial reminder of the potential consequences of such habits. It is evident that she is not only focused on her career but also on her overall well-being, indicating a desire to reclaim her health and continue to perform for her audience.

For those grappling with addiction or struggling with substance abuse, seeking help is imperative. Resources like the SAMHSA helpline, accessible at 1-800-662-HELP, can provide the necessary support for individuals in need. Lola Young’s journey continues to unfold, and her story undeniably highlights the importance of self-care amidst the pressures of the music industry.