The Chroming Challenge: A New Alert from INEQE
Marilyn Hawes of Freedom From Abuse writes about a dangerous new trend
Recently, a tragic incident occurred involving an 11-year-old boy in Lancashire who lost his life after reportedly taking part in a dangerous trend called ‘chroming’ during a sleepover.
Chroming involves inhaling chemicals like aerosols, nitrous oxide, solvents, and nitrites, also known as nangs, nossies, whippets and bullets. This activity is associated with a euphoric high but carries potentially fatal risks, including heart and lung damage as well as harm to brain and behavioural development.
Global Trend
Inhalant abuse is not a new phenomenon. What is particularly concerning is how the trend is spreading globally through social media. A 13-year-old girl in Australia died in 2023, suffering a heart attack after inhaling chemicals from a deodorant can during a sleepover. Similarly, a 14-year-old from Ireland who died after inhaling aerosol is suspected to have been influenced by seeing the challenge on TikTok.
The UK government updated the law on November 8th, 2023, to classify nitrous oxide as a Class C drug, subjecting those who misuse or possess it with the intent to misuse it to criminal penalties. However, many solvents abused in chroming, like glue, permanent markers and deodorant cans, are widely accessible everyday items and are inherently harder to police.
Methods of Inhalation
There are various methods of inhalation that are used when chroming. Therefore, it can be difficult to control the dosage. This danger increases significantly in enclosed spaces or when covering the face with items such as plastic bags.
Spraying; Spraying the contents of an aerosol container directly into the mouth or nose.
Bagging; Spraying the contents of an aerosol container into a paper or plastic bag to be held over the person’s mouth or nose for inhalation.
Sniffing; Sniffing the fumes directly from the container.
Huffing; Soaking a rag with the inhalant and holding it to the face for inhalation.
Why Are Young People Engaging in this Behaviour?
The Feeling:
Inhalants have unpredictable effects; users commonly report feelings of intoxication, dizziness, laughter and hallucinations.
Thrill-seeking Behaviours:
Young people are naturally curious. Trends and activities that provide a sense of risk, rebellion or just seem like fun can be appealing.
Media Influence:
Depictions of chroming in popular media, might contribute to its appeal among young people. Characters spray chrome paint directly into their own mouths before battle in Mad Max: Fury Road to induce a dissociative high.
Peer Pressure:
Young people may feel pressured to participate in the chroming challenge to fit in with their peers. By not joining in, they may face social isolation or bullying.