Choking Game
American Dreams, Flatliner, Space Cowboy, Knock out, Gasp, Rising Sun, Airplaning, Hawaiian High and Blackout...
Are you wondering what all these words have in common? They are all names for a game some kids are playing today. It’s the Choking Game and it can cause brain damage or death. It’s something all parents should be aware of.
The Choking Game brings about a euphoric state by cutting off the flow of oxygen containing blood to the brain. A child will choke his friend until he or she passes out. The kid being choked “get off” on the rush that is supplied as the blood flow returns to the brain and they become conscious again. If a child does this to herself by using a rope or other device, no one is available to release the pressure if the child passes out. The child can’t help himself and thus death can occur.
This is not a new game, and apparently has been played over a number of generations. The new twist is kids doing it alone with other props. Obviously, more deaths are now occurring because of this. When you hear on the news of more deaths occurring from the Choking Game, more is written about it. Not only is this catching the attention of parents, but of kids who hadn’t heard about it before. So, more children are now trying it because of all the media attention it is stirring up.
Here are some signs that may help you determine whether your child is involved in this activity:
Marks or bruises on the throat
Severe headaches (more than normal)
Ropes, belts, leashes, ties, shoelaces, etc. that you find around the house, or ties with knots.
Unexplained cuts and bruises from falling
Disorientation after spending time alone
Locked doors to the bedroom
Kids play this game to be cool. It can also become addictive. Teenage kids think they are invincible and that nothing can happen to them. They just keep on trying new things without thinking of the consequences.
If you think your child is involved in this deadly game, get help. Monitor them very closely. Make sure other siblings are not involved. Let the school know you have a concern about your child and ask a counselor or a teacher to watch him. If your child is hanging around a particular friend all the time, check with that parent to see if she is also seeing signs. Professional help may also be needed. Just don’t wait too long, as the next time the game is played could be the last.
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