The following is a message from the Harper Jr High, but it is certain that some students at elementary schools know about it as well. Please discuss this with your kids and let them know how dangerous this type of activity is.
Begin forwarded message to Harper Parents:
Harper Parents:
I am writing to pass on important information about some risk-taking behavior that has come to my attention. Several of our 7th grade students have been engaging in a game they call the “pass out game.” Similar to the “choking game” which has received national attention because of deaths from playing the game, the “pass out game” has students attempting to temporarily cut off oxygen to their brains to get what they perceive to be a drug free high.
Many children play this game in groups so that they can catch the person fainting and avoid injury. Engaging in this self-asphyxiation behavior is extremely dangerous. It appears that the children engaging in this behavior believe there is no danger as no drugs are involved. In this potentially lethal game, the children crouch down, hyperventilate for 15-20 breaths and quickly stand up as they place their thumb in their mouth and then blow. This causes an increase in pressure on the brain coupled with a head rush from the heavy breathing and standing up. While this behavior is not new, the information is far more accessible than it was for our generation. Last night, I was able to find countless “how to” articles on the internet as well as You Tube videos showing children playing the game.
I spoke to all of the 7th graders today and told them how concerned I am about this behavior. While many of the students had no idea what I was referring to, many others did. This information is not meant to alarm you; however, I ask that you speak with your child about this the way you already address other harmful behaviors such as using drugs and alcohol. Find out what your child knows about the “pass out game” and ask them if they have any questions.
Cara Leppington
Counseling Department
