The story is the same, but the substance changes. For decades we’ve been hearing tragic tales of teens losing their life to what they thought was harmless experimentation with drugs. This time the story is about a 14-year-old honor student from Northridge, California.
Aria Doherty died after inhaling computer keyboard cleaner, a growing trend among young students. The straight-A student at Nobel Middle School had been home alone for a couple of hours when she inhaled the duster, NBCLosAngeles.com reported. Her older sister found Aria in bed with a can of compressed air still attached to her mouth, her nostrils taped shut. A plastic bag was found nearby.
Aria’s parents believe it was her first time trying this dangerous drug, but there’s no way to be sure. What they do know with certainty is she had no idea of the dangers. “I'm positive my daughter didn't realize it had the potential to kill her," Carolyn Doherty said.
Huffing, also known as “bagging” or “dusting,” may not seem dangerous to teens, because it involves substances that can be bought at any office supply store or found laying around the house.
Like many parents the Dohertys took a variety of safety precautions. They had no dangerous weapons in their home and kept prescription medications locked away. They even recently purged their home of all alcohol and made a point to talk to their teen daughters about the dangers of substance abuse. It never occurred to them to address the topic of huffing.
They’re not alone. Most parents don’t think to talk to their kids about the dangers of inhaling common household substances like cleaners, paint or glue, but teens know that these substances offer a quick high and that they are easily accessible. What they may not understand is how huffing these chemicals just one time can be deadly. Even if they don’t die, long-term use of inhalants can cause damage to the kidneys, liver and brain, while short-term dangers include heart problems. In Aria’s case the exact cause of death is still being determined. Meanwhile the Dohertys want their daughter’s death to be a message to other parents to be aware of this developing threat.
If you or someone you love needs treatment for huffing, drinking or other substance abuse habits, call The Canyon today. We are here for you 24 hours a day and will connect you to the resources you need for a lasting recovery.
