The far-reaching impact of the internet can have numerous benefits as well as potential harms. In this section we will look at some of the potential harms we have been made aware of as a team either as harmful purchases or social platform challenges.

In all cases we would recommend not drawing attention to the challenge or harmful substance by naming it or publicising it to a wider group of people.

If you are aware of any online harms please contact the safe from suicide team on Safefrom.Suicide@merseycare.nhs.uk

The Samaritans and other organisations have helpful on-line content you can access via the links below:

Useful to know/share:

In all cases we would recommend not drawing attention to the challenge by naming it or publicising it to a wider group of people.

Puffer Fish

This challenge involves wrapping a cord around your neck to get feeling that your head is like a puffer fish.

A student reported that it is not a video but a series of stills of different challenges. The student said that they had the puffer fish feeling and stopped.

There are a few similar challenges of this nature also circulating on online platforms

Curing powder/salts (Sodium Nitrite)

Curing powder is widely available on the internet for purchase and can be deadly if ingested in large amounts.  The main ingredient is salt (Sodium Nitrite), along with other substances which may cause harm. 

Recently increased consumption of this substance has been linked to suicides, as the substance lowers the ability of the red blood cells to move oxygen around the body.  This can affect the ability to breathe, which can cause collapse.

If ingestion of this substance is suspected, emergency services should be contacted on 999 for treatment to be provided.

We would also recommend not drawing attention to this by publicising to a those who maybe at risk.

Please see attached for further information: Alert Curing PowderSalts