The Rise of Whippets: Why Nitrous Oxide Abuse Is Making a Comeback Among Gen Z
The Rise of Whippets: Why Nitrous Oxide Abuse Is Making a Comeback Among Gen Z
Back in the day, whippets were associated with people using cans of things like whipped cream to get a euphoric, short-lasting high. While the idea of getting high off a whipped cream can seemed innocuous and even funny, the reality became clear that this was an extremely dangerous activity. The facts about nitrous oxide misuse spread quickly, as the dangers were enormous. Nerve damage, memory loss, mental decline, and even death…there were so many reasons not to get high by doing whippets.
While the practice—for lack of a better terminology—fell out of fashion for a period, it has made its way back in the form of something many people never saw coming—Galaxy Gas.
The Galaxy Gas Craze
So, what is Galaxy Gas?
Put simply, it’s nitrous oxide that is sold for culinary use. With that said, its branding led to a boost in its popularity, as it used colorful and attractive packaging that became popular quickly with a Gen Z audience. Teens quickly found out that they could get high using these dispensers, and the trend became popular quickly on social media. What many of them didn’t realize is they were doing the same thing millennials and Gen X had done back in the day—whippets.
Seeing it on social media, many teens thought (and still think) it’s not dangerous. Obviously, this isn’t true.
While not generally physically addictive, some teens have found themselves psychologically addicted to the high. This also may have served as an on-ramp for using other drugs and drinking.
Getting Your Child the Help They Need
If your child is suffering from addiction related to whippets or any other issue, reach out to Front Door Health for support.
Front Door Health provides concierge, judgment-free in-home treatment for patients when they need it. We take an evidence-based approach to treatment, and we create custom treatment plans for our patients to increase their chances of success. Our treatment process is client-focused and individualized. This means no group sessions with strangers and no “treatment as usual” approach. Your child is unique, and the treatment plan we create for your child is designed to meet them where they are along their journey and help them to reach their recovery goals.
We understand that it can be difficult for your child to put their life on hold. Our in-home treatment allows your child to continue to meet their school, family, and other obligations while receiving the treatment they deserve.
If you would like to learn more about in-home treatment, contact Front Door Health today. We’re happy to answer any questions and provide your child with the help they need.
info@frontdoorhealthcenter.com
