Stop Bullying!

Because bullying can seriously affect the lives of those who experience it, here’s how to recognize it — and how to stop it.

What exactly is it?

Bullying happens when someone repeats comments or actions meant to hurt, upset, or humiliate another person.

How does it start?

Most often, bullying begins with verbal or written insults. In more serious cases, it can involve physical violence. People who bully may also break or steal their victim’s belongings.

Where does bullying happen?

Bullying often starts in school hallways or the schoolyard. It can also happen on the school bus, during sports or art activities, or in parks — places where there’s less adult supervision. In fact, bullies often act where there’s little risk of getting caught.

Here are a few examples of bullying...

… physical: being hit or pushed, having your belongings like notebooks, lunch, or clothes broken or stolen

… verbal: being insulted, called names, threatened, or mocked for your appearance, background, or beliefs

… social: being excluded, ignored, or targeted by negative rumors

Four keys to help you get through it

If you’re a victim of bullying, here’s what to do:

1. Stay as calm as possible and say clearly that you don’t agree or don’t accept what’s happening.

2. Walk away from kids whose behavior hurts or upsets you.

3. Talk about what’s going on with an adult you trust.

4. Ask a friend to come with you if you’re scared to talk to an adult alone.

Watch out for the Internet!

You might still be too young to have an Instagram, TikTok, or email account, but you should already know that there’s a lot of bullying online. Someone can send you threats or insults in private messages or post them publicly on social media. If that happens, you must tell a trusted adult right away.

“If you don’t fear for your safety, dare to stand up for the person being bullied and help them leave the scene. And to make sure it doesn’t happen again, inform an adult about what happened as soon as possible.” - Orelia

How not to become a bully yourself

• Always treat others the way you’d like to be treated.

• If you make a joke about someone and they don’t laugh, ask yourself if you might have hurt them. Sometimes what seems funny to us isn’t funny to others.

• Refuse to join in or encourage those who bully others.

• If you’re being bullied, remember — you won’t solve anything by acting the same way toward others.

People who can help

Here’s a list of people who can help you find solutions to stop bullying:

• A parent

• A teacher

• A coach

• An older brother or sister

• A bus driver