What advice would you give...

[Keli Catherine Stone]

This is a network for all ages. We are looking for advice, tips, or opinions on all things from A-Z.
What have you experienced in your life that would be of benefit to others?

Alcoholism?
Bulimia?
Caring for the sick or elderly?
Drug abuse?
Emotional abuse?
Finances?
Gardening?....

Any advice on any subject matters A-Z are welcome!

[Rayne]

Another one to add, that I have seen from time to time that I think is a good issue to mention, especially in young adults.

Cutting or self injury.

[Keli Catherine Stone]

Yes, this is a great point to bring up!
Also, there's been an epidemic called the "choking game" or "pass out game."

Any advice on how these things can be prevented?

[Rayne]

Thats true too. Well, I don't know about advice for the choking game other than 'stop, what are you thinking'

But someone had passed some advice to me recently that there is something to do to help with self-injury, called The Butterfly Effect. Which is, drawing a butterfly or something on your wrist when you feel you have the urge to cut. If you cut, you've killed the butterfly.

[Keli Catherine Stone]

That's a good tactic to use. I would suggest a friend draw the butterfly, to let them know they're not alone, someone does care about what is happening to the one doing the cutting.

[Jan]

Is this choking along with sexual stimulation or choking for blackout? Choking for blackout is a cry for help. Strangulation to enhance orgasm is another issue...likely an addiction issue.

If one is choking for blackout or to get close to the death experience perhaps it is practice leading to the real thing...this behavior should be challenged lovingly yet firmly. What is driving the person to this behavior? At this level professional help is very important. We should be very careful not to tamper with something we are not qualified to deal with. The steps taken would be aimed at helping the person find help.

If one is involved in the other behavior they should be warned of the dangers - brain damage, death etc. The behavior should also be challenged lovingly yet firmly. This addiction is driven by some deeper issues. These can be uncovered in a group or personal setting with a counselor.