A troubling new trend has emerged among teenagers on social media – the game "Red Doors, Yellow Doors", also known as "Mind Doors". Participants attempt to put each other into a trance-like state.
This poses risks to both physical and mental health, warns the National Social Service of Ukraine.
They explained that during the game, children try to induce a state reminiscent of hypnosis through relaxation and visualization techniques. Consequently, the child reportedly sees imaginary rooms that they describe.
Experts emphasize that such activities can be harmful to schoolchildren physically and psychologically. Similar games can disrupt circulation, cause spasms, headaches, and dizziness.
Additionally, these practices may increase intracranial pressure and, in cases of congenital conditions, lead to a stroke.
The National Social Service noted that "Red Doors, Yellow Doors" can trigger anxiety symptoms and disorientation in children, sometimes resulting in panic attacks and the development of psychosis.
Furthermore, these games can lead to nightmares and a distorted sense of reality.
Moreover, dangerous trends can pose socio-behavioral risks for children:
- isolation;
- irritability;
- nervousness;
- engaging in dangerous actions or crimes.
"Be aware! The aggressor country uses game mechanics to recruit children for real crimes and participation in diversions – arson, planting explosives, damaging infrastructure," the social service emphasized.
What should parents do if their children are engaged in dangerous activities?
Parents are advised to build trusting relationships with their children to promptly notice any dangerous interests. The service recommends that adults calmly discuss the game with their child, ask what interests them about it, and listen without judgment.
Then, it is important to explain the potential risks of such games, discussing their impact on mental health and the possibility of involvement in criminal activities.
"Pay attention to emotional behavior. If the child becomes withdrawn, anxious, or has nightmares after the conversation, consult a psychologist," the experts added.
This year, a dangerous challenge involving children making firecrackers at home circulated on social media. Due to attempts to create pyrotechnic devices, three children were hospitalized in Lviv within a week.