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Bullying is an issue that affects individuals across all ages and backgrounds, but particularly in school settings. Defined as repeated aggressive behavior intended to harm another person physically, mentally, or emotionally, bullying can have profound and long-lasting effects.
Bullying is an issue that affects individuals across all ages and backgrounds, but particularly in school settings. Defined as repeated aggressive behavior intended to harm another person physically, mentally, or emotionally, bullying can have profound and long-lasting effects.
Mental Health Effects:
Low Self-Esteem
Bullying ruins a person’s self esteem and destroys their confidence with the use of name-calling, criticism, and exclusion from things like class parties and events outside of school. The repeated use of these methods can make people feel inadequate and unworthy, impacting their self-image well into adulthood.
Increased Risk of Anxiety and Depression
Victims of bullying often experience heightened levels of anxiety and depression. The constant fear of being targeted, working in tandem with emotional distress caused by bullying can lead to persistent negative emotions, including a sense of helplessness.
Suicidal Tendencies and Self-Harm
The psychological toll of bullying can sometimes push people into having suicidal thoughts or self-harming behaviors. The feeling of being trapped and powerless often leads to people taking these measures.
If you are experiencing these symptoms please call the Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-827-7571 and reach out to a therapist or counselor.
Physical Health Effects:
Impact on Physical Well-being
Bullying doesn't just affect mental health; it can also manifest itself physically. Victims of bullying may experience headaches, stomachaches, and other stress-related symptoms on a regular basis.
Sleeplessness
Bullying often disrupts sleep patterns. Victims may have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep due to anxiety, which leads to an increase in stress hormones and sleeplessness.
Long-Term Consequences of Bullying:
Social/Relationship Issues Due to Lowered Self-Esteem
Victims of bullying may struggle with forming relationships and having social connections. The bullying they experienced in the past can make it hard for them to interact confidently with others, leading to social isolation and withdrawal.
Academic and Career Related Impacts
Children and teens who are bullied may experience difficulties concentrating in school, leading to academic underperformance. In adulthood, the effects of bullying can impact their career and job satisfaction.
How to Address the Issue:
Building Resilience through Support Networks
Beneficial coping strategies, promoting self-confidence, and fostering a culture of kindness and empathy are essential steps towards creating a safer environment. These methods and other personalized ones can be discussed with a therapist or counselor, and can even be discussed on something like a school wide level.
Written by: Claire
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