Parents, there is another "game" you better watch for. It is the game of choking oneself to achieve a short high. It appears to be spreading and both daughters and sons are playing it (although the CDC reported that more deaths occurred with boys ages 11 to 16).

There are even You Tube videos teaching kids how to do it. The problem is there is no safe way to learn and, when you are that close to the line, many kids accidentally go over it.

More than 60 deaths have occurred dude to the choking game since 2005 according to the CDC (Center for Disease Control). The web site (GASP Games Teens Shouldn't Play) reported 65 children died in 2007 alone. This number is probably understated because the choking game deaths involve accidental strangulation with a rope or belt which often looks like suicide.

This game is played in a variety of ways, but the goal is to deprive the brain of oxygen long enough to create a feeling of euphoria before passing out. They may use their hands to squeeze the necks of friends or they may use computer cords, scarves or ropes. In another version, kids bend down and try to induce hyperventilation by taking deep breaths followed by a "bear hug" from a friend.

One important note for parents is that the game is not the same thing as autoerotic asphyxiation (another risky behavior that tends to be practiced by older teens and adults), in which masturbation and asphyxia are combined to achieve a more powerful orgasm.

What parents should look for if they are concerned with their children playing this game:

1. Listen to your kids talk. Words such as flat liner, black out, fainting game, dream game, and space cowboy are a few.

2. Look for blood shot eyes with your child.

3. If your child complains of a lot of headaches (and hasn't done this before).

3. If your child has red marks around their necks or small red dots on their neck.

4. Look at your child's room. Are there scarves tied on the furniture, door knob, lying on the floor. Are there leashes or dog collars lying on the floor? Is this unusual? When you ask your teen about it what do they say?

The best way to prevent your child from being a statistic is to talk to your child. Bring up a discussion at dinner about this topic and talk to your child about it. What causes it? How do they feel about it? Do they know anyone who does this? Kids who participate in this game often times feel unconnected to the family and alone. They may suffer from depression and a parent thought it was normal teen behavior. Talk to your kids, listen to them, and hug them. They are teens, but they need you more than ever before.

 

MJo