Social media trends come and go, but some can have devastating consequences. One such trend, known as the Blackout Challenge, has resurfaced on TikTok, leading to tragic incidents among young users.
This guide will help parents and educators understand the risks and take action.
What is the Blackout Challenge?
- This challenge involves choking oneself or holding one’s breath until passing out.
- Participants record and share their attempts on social media.
- Common objects used include belts, purse straps, or other household items (Source: The Verge).
- This trend has existed since at least 2008 but resurfaced recently on TikTok (Source: People).
- TikTok has tried to block related hashtags, but videos discussing or showing the challenge can still appear (Source: Newsweek).
Sadly, multiple young people have died attempting this challenge.
Why Are Kids Participating?
- Peer Pressure – Many feel the need to try risky challenges to gain social acceptance.
- Curiosity – Some kids don’t fully understand the consequences and want to test limits.
- Viral Content – Algorithms often promote extreme challenges, making them hard to ignore.
- Desire for Views & Likes – Social validation can drive risky behavior.
Understanding these motivations can help adults address concerns effectively.
Real-Life Incidents: A Wake-Up Call
It was the TikTok-infamous “Blackout Challenge” that killed 10-year-old Nylah Anderson, according to her mom. In December 2021, Philadelphia-area resident Tawainna Anderson discovered her daughter’s lifeless body on the bedroom floor, following the “active, happy, healthy, and incredibly intelligent” girl’s attempt to complete the challenge, in which users of the world’s second most popular non-gaming app choked themselves with belts, towels, or other objects until they passed out. Nylah was rushed to the hospital, where she died five days later. – The Independent
Milwaukee 9-year-old dies attempting 'blackout' challenge | GMA
Warning Signs to Watch For
- Kids mentioning terms like “pass out challenge,” “choking game,” or “space monkey.”
- Bloodshot eyes, marks on the neck, headaches, or confusion.
- Finding ropes, belts, or cords tied in unexpected places.
- Talking about how long they can hold their breath or trying risky stunts alone.
If you notice any of these signs, have a conversation immediately.
How Parents & Educators Can Respond
- Start the Conversation – Ask kids about what they see online. Help them think critically about trends.
- Stay Informed – Dangerous trends may disappear and resurface. Keep talking, even if your child says it’s not popular anymore.
- Monitor Social Media – Check what content kids are consuming and discuss the risks.
- Encourage Safer Challenges – Direct them toward fun, positive trends that don’t put their health at risk.
- Act Fast in an Emergency – If someone is unconscious, call 911 immediately.
Key Terms to Know
- Choking Game
- Pass Out Challenge
- Space Monkey
- Asphyxiation Game
Where to Get Help
- If someone is in danger, call 911 immediately.
- For mental health support, contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.
- Text HOME to 741-741 for free support from a trained crisis counselor.