HOUSTON — This is a tough time to be a kid, and dealing with bullies and cyber-bullies doesn’t make it any easier.
One out of four kids is bullied and 42% have experienced cyber-bullying, according to national nonprofit Stomp Out Bullying.
Being bullied can be hurtful and humiliating, leading to withdrawal, depression and worse. Some kids are so tormented, they think suicide is the only way out. According to a study by the U.S. Secret Service's National Threat Assessment Center, a large number of school shooters were subjected to severe bullying.
There are several signs that bullying may be affecting a child’s emotional and physical health.
Know the signs
- Withdrawal
- Depression
- Reluctance to go to school
- Sudden drop in grades
- Self-deprecating talk
- Staying away from friends
- Crying Episodes
- Frequent complaints of headaches and/or stomach aches
- Unexplained bruises
Long-term effects
- Severe depression
- Drug and alcohol use
- Self-harming
- Suicide
Help for victims of bullying
If parents aren’t sure how to talk with their kids about the issue, Stomp Out Bullying has an online HelpChat for young people. It’s free and confidential and available for teens and young adults, ages 13-24. Trained volunteers are available on Mondays from 6 p.m. to midnight and Tuesdays from 8 p.m. to midnight.
When the HelpChat Line is not available and your child is in crisis, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or the GLBT National Youth Talkline at 1-800-246-PRID (7743).
Parents can also find tips on what to do if their child is a bully or being bullied here.
Take a stand
Want to take a stand against bullying during National Prevention Awareness Month?
If you’re a parent, you can start by teaching your children to be kind, to stand up for others and to reach out to kids who may feel left out. Lead by example.
Even if you’re not a parent, there are opportunities to show support for the anti-bullying campaign.
October 5 is World Day of Bullying Prevention. Wear blue to join others around the world in speaking out against bullying and cyberbullying.
October 21 is Unity Day 2020 so wear orange to promote kindness, accceptance and inclusion.
Free and Confidential
• Ages 13-24 Only
• Not Available to Adul
Online Hours (EST)
Monday 6:00PM - 12:00AM
Tuesday 8:00PM - 12:00AM
Free and Confidential
Online Hours (EST)
Monday 6:00PM - 12:00AM
Tuesday 8:00PM - 12:00AM
