Middle-schooler hospitalized following dangerous ‘Blackout challenge’

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — A middle school student ended up in a hospital following a dangerous social media trend that has recirculated.

“The Blackout Challenge” is a game, sometimes referred to as a choking or fainting game, where people hold their breath until they blackout to obtain a brief “high.”.

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Two New Jersey students participated in the game, according to Acting Superintendent for South Orange Schools, Dr. Kevin Gilbert, who told NBC affiliate WNBC that after the one student blacked out, he had “difficulty resuming breathing” and was taken to a nearby hospital.

“The message to students is to be mindful – these challenges are serious and not safe – and we ask our family to help educate them about the dangers of these challenges,” Gilbert said.

The principal of the school, Lynn Irby Hill, sent a message to parents regarding Tuesday’s incidents, saying:

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One parent told WNBC that although peer pressure has always been a thing, social media is escalating it, and said that parents should have these difficult conversations with their children given the seriousness of the incident.

In a 2008 report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), officials listed warning signs that your child may be participating in this trend:

• Discussion of the game (including terms like “pass-out game” or “space monkey”

• Bloodshot eyes

• Marks on the neck

• Severe headaches

• Disorientation after spending time alone

• Ropes, scarves, and belts tied to furniture

• Unexplained presence of dog leashes, choke collars, or bungee cords

The report also said most fatalities were among boys ages 11 to 16 years old.

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