Staff
Neknominations, a risky and dangerous drinking game, has gained popularity on social media, including here in Grey Bruce. Neknominations involve someone recording their binge drinking on a social media site followed by a challenge for others to do the same.
There have been deaths linked to the neknominations worldwide.
These high-risk nominations are being recognized for the real danger they pose and are being replaced with raknominations, which are postings of “random-acts-of-kindness” with nominations or challenges for others to do the same. Similar to “pay it forward”, the idea is gaining momentum. People are posting videos showing charitable donations and other good deeds as a way to trigger a chain reaction of kindness.
“It’s quite remarkable to see how people take an idea as disturbing as neknominations, and turn it into something that has a positive impact on the community” says Mathew MacLeod, Health Promoter at the Grey Bruce Health Unit. “People realize the negative impacts of posting a neknomination. Not only is it a huge health risk, but these videos are easily seen by current and future employers. Instead of humiliating themselves online, individuals are using the popularity of the nomination to create something positive.”
Despite the increase in random-acts-of-kindness, neknominations continue in Grey Bruce. “The popularity of this type of activity shows that excessive drinking remains a problem in our area.” says MacLeod. “We need to continue with efforts to address binge drinking and to work towards a culture of moderation. We’ve made progress in reducing drinking rates in our communities, but we need to continue to adopt healthy public policies and support ways to address alcohol related issues in Grey Bruce.”
