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In this world, bullying has many faces. It is inescapable whether it be pushing on the playground or rude tweets, bullying comes in many forms but it always stings.
Types of bullying:
1- Somatic tormenting: Hitting, pushing, or harming property
2- Verbal bullying: Name-calling, teasing, and vicious jokes
3- Cyber bullying: Bullying through social media, text, or email
Excluding other people, gossiping or sabotaging relationships.
Typical traits of bullies and those they target
Many bullies of course fight their own demons. If they are helpless in other parts of their lives, or if they mimic things going on at home or both! The victims are usually children who may be gifted in academics, simply look different or act as a loner and not want to fit into the regular group.
clear anti-bullying policies
The Immediate Effects of Bullying on Mental Health
Anxiety and stress responses
Bullying triggers what is known as the “fight or flight” response in someone. They may experience jitters, insomnia or headaches. Your kid may begin to make excuses not to go to school or some places;
I was sick to my stomach each day at the thought of going back to school each morning. I wasn’t sure who was going to say what that day.’ – A bullying survivor
Lack of confidence and self-esteem
When someone is actually bullied, it makes them feel like not enough. They may begun to believe the nasty remarks made about them by others that are false from the truth originally.
Isolation and withdrawal from the community
Because of being bullied, a number of individuals begin distancing themselves from their friends and the things that give them fun. Maybe they take their lunch alone or quit attending after-school clubs.
Mental health issues that last for a long time
Depression and mood disorders
Bullying can cause you to leave these feelings of sadness and hopelessness in your body. Others may find hobbies which they previously enjoyed to be unappealing, or reckon it difficult to perceive a brighter future.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
PTSD can be caused by this act of bullying just like other acts of trauma. Flashbacks might replay past situations, or anything resembling a location where they experienced things can be avoided.
Effect to Personal Relationships
Bullying can affect the trust you have in others. Others might find it difficult to make new friends- or forge deep relationships later in life.
Environmental factors
There are also many, of course, family situations that contribute to that; school climate contributes to that; and what is happening in the neighborhoods contributes to that, as well. Kids who witness violent behavior at home often accept that as something normal. Bullying and harassment can be left to flourish, where schools lack clear anti-bullying policies
Frequently Asked Questions
Signs that a child might be suffering from mental health issues due to being bullied
Keep an eye out for sleeping habits, skipping school or social events, mood swings and physical complaints like headaches or stomach aches with no apparent cause.
How long do the effects of bullying last?
If you don’t take action, the effects may last until your adulthood. But if you get the support and assistance then you can, and will, recover.
When do I need to go for professional help?
If you notice changes to someone’s mood, behavior or daily activities that continue over time, seek help. Don’t wait for things to go wrong. Seek help and support as soon as possible.
Does that actually make bullying a cause of severe mental health illness?
Although prolonged bullying can induce anxiety disorders, depression and other mental illnesses. Early intervention is key.
Stay tuned for Part 3: The role of parents and teachers in prevention.
They create safe places, they teach respect to all parties involved and address bullying quickly, while also providing support for targets and bullies alike.