(Image Source: Courier Mail)

 

BY JESSICA GOODWIN

ANCHOR MEGAN MURPHY
 

‘American Dreaming,’ ‘California High,’ ‘Space Monkey.’ Not sure what any of these mean? - Neither did 15-year-old Abigail Corthals parents- until their daughter tragically killed herself playing the deadly craze among teenagers- ‘The Choking Game’. Now they’re determined to warn others about the horrible game that killed their daughter.


“MRS CORTHAL- If I knew about it I would have said to Abigail Listen I hope you don’t do something stupid like that.
REPORTER- Her parents are hoping by speaking out they could save lives- only two weeks ago the same stunt killed a 12-year-old boy in America.
MR CORTHALS- Alot of people, especially our age and older have never heard of it.
MRS CORTHALS- Alot of parents don’t know about it, but they’re children do.
MR CORTHALS- But it’s incredible that the teenager even from nine to upwards know about it.”


The Choking Game Awareness website run by the Dangerous Behaviors Foundation, explains how and why teenagers are taking part in lethal trend-


“... The object of the 'game' is asphyxiation, as in, to apply pressure restricting oxygen and blood flow to the brain... The goal is a desired 'floaty', 'tingling', 'high' sensation. Some participate as a pass time, out of curiosity, or as a result of peer pressure.  Many do not perceive a risk when engaging in this practice.”


The Choking game is virtually unknown to parents, and unfortunately its seems most learn about the game once its too late. A writer for Patch.com says the best weapon for parents is awareness-


“When I was a child, the most we would do is hold our breath, but today children are literally choking themselves with their own hands or hanging themselves with belts or ties. As parents we can only warn our children of what we are aware of... Add this to your awareness chart.”


It’s hard to place a definite number on the total deaths as a result of the game- distinguishing between accidental death and suicide can be difficult.


Awareness association G.A.S.P, estimates there have been approximately 57 victims of the choking game from 2010 to present.