Though other issues are more widespread, a dangerous game called “choking” has killed dozens of young people in the last few years. The purpose of the game is to cut off oxygen to the brain just long enough to pass out or begin feeling “high.”
An article by Jean Paul of thefacts.com provided the following information about this potentially deadly activity:
This game is exactly what it sounds like. Participants attempt to gain a “high” or euphoric feeling by depriving the brain of oxygen by applying pressure with another person’s hands or with belts, neckties or other devices wound around the neck.
Another variation involves one person taking a deep breath and holding it while a second person hugs them from behind until the first person feels dizzy and passes out.
A recent CDC report estimated that about 85 deaths and several incidences of brain injuries were reported between 1995 and 2007. The kids who died were 13 years old, on average, and 87 percent were boys.
The choking game is also known by several other names, including the pass-out game, space monkey, fainting game, black out, five minutes of heaven, rush, knock-out game, natural high and suffocation roulette.
Labels: health, danger, choking
Posted By: Troubled Teens