Replies to '12/21 Shocking Teen Trends'

I wanted to give a little perspective from someone who actually struggles with playing this 'game.'  First off all, a lot of people don't realize this, but the 'choking game' can be addictive. It can be horribly addictive.  I am an adult, and I was introduced to this 'game' at a sleepover when I was nine.  I want to say to all of you who are calling those who do this 'stupid' are only hurting us more and making it even harder for us to stop. There are probably other people reading this who are struggling with this addiction. And yes, it is an addiction, like drugs or alchohol, gamblilng, or overeating- except that it is potentially even more damaging than most of these things. Chances are some of the people making these snide remarks have people they love who are addicted to this. It is not easy to just stop.  Whether it is the endorphon 'high' one gets from it, or the thrill of having cheated death or the sense of release from emotions, people get addicted.  Calling them stupid does not help them, and there are probably other people reading this who are doing it who are too afraid to write but who are hurt deeply by these comments (And I can't imagine the parents of those who died feeling too good either) People who do this know that others consider it stupid. That's why they don't seek help. That, and they are convinced that no one would understand. Sadly, they are often right.  I have sought help from a counselor and was greeted with a complete lack of understanding. I also joined an online support group for addictions and was laughed at and basically sent packing.  Well, now there is a place for those of us who struggle. There is a new yahoogroup for anyone who is struggling with this activity, and for those who love them and intend to be supportive. Anyone coming to tear people down will be banned and reported.  If you want to join, go to http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/stopchoking/  It was started by a concerned friend and we are looking for a mental health professional with experience in this area to participate in the group. 

    This activity becomes addictive, and after a while, it is no longer fun. You kind of hate doing it, but you cannot stop.  You think about it when you shouldn't, and you suffer, for the most part, in silence. You know that each time you give in and tie up that cord or rope or belt that this could be the time you mistime releasing it and die. But often there is denial, it won't happen to me, after all, I've done it so many times before...and those little voices tell you its ok to do it.   

    If you have never done this activity DON'T START. IT IS NOT EVEN REMOTELY WORTH IT.  Some people will do it once and never again but some people won't be able to stop.